EPIPEN

Drug Name: EPIPEN

EPIPEN DESCRIPTION:
EPINEPHRINE AUTO-INJECTOR (ep-in-EFF-rin)

COMMON EPIPEN BRAND NAME(S):
Epi E-Z Pen, Epipen

EPIPEN SIDE EFFECTS:
You may feel slight nervousness and an increased heart rate soon after the injection. A pounding heartbeat, sweating, nausea, vomiting, breathing trouble, headache, dizziness and anxiety may also occur. The effects of EPIPEN begin to wear off after 10 to 20 minutes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE EPIPEN:
EPIPEN: EPIPEN is given by injection. It is designed to be self-administered. To use, remove the safety cap. Hold the device with the black tip against the thigh and apply moderate pressure for several seconds. This will release a spring activated plunger which pushes a concealed needle into the outer part thigh to deliver the medication. Discard the unit properly. The effects of EPIPEN should be felt within seconds. Administer through the clothing if necessary. Seek further medical help immediately. Try to keep warm and avoid exertion. Tell the health care professional you have given yourself an injection of epinephrine. Administer to the thigh area only. Avoid use near a vein or the buttocks.

EPIPEN USES:
Epinephrine acts quickly to improve breathing, stimulate the heart and reverse hives and swelling around the face and lips. EPIPEN is used in emergencies to treat potentially dangerous allergic reactions to insect stings or bites, foods, drugs or other substances.

EPIPEN PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing heart disease, thyroid disease or diabetes. EPIPEN should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or if breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

EPIPEN DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including antidepressants. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

EPIPEN OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include fast or irregular heartbeat.

EPIPEN NOTES:
Patients with severe allergies must be clearly instructed how and when to use EPIPEN. Review the indications and administration procedures carefully with your doctor. Also teach a family member and close friend what to do in the event of an emergency.

EPIPEN STORAGE:
Store EPIPEN at room temperature away from heat and sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Avoid storing this in the glove compartment or trunk of your car in the summer. If the solution is not clear or turns brown, replace the unit. Check the expiration date periodically and replace the unit before it expires.