EpiPen
Definition: A prescription auto-injector that delivers a measured dose of epinephrine into the thigh muscle during a severe allergic reaction. EpiPen is one brand name, and other epinephrine auto-injectors include Auvi-Q and generic options. They all do the same lifesaving job: reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis quickly.
Parent Tip: If your child has a prescribed EpiPen, every adult who cares for them should know exactly where it is and how to use it. That means grandparents, babysitters, daycare staff, teachers, and family friends. Practice with the trainer device that comes with most prescriptions. The real device is used by pressing it firmly against the outer thigh muscle, even through clothing, and holding for the time printed on the device. After use, call 911 and go to the emergency room, because anaphylaxis can come back in a second wave several hours later.
When to Use an EpiPen
- Trouble breathing, wheezing, or throat tightness
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Repeated vomiting with another allergy symptom
- Hives combined with breathing or stomach symptoms
- Sudden weakness, dizziness, or fainting
- Any reaction in a child with a known severe allergy where you are unsure how bad it will get
When in doubt, give the EpiPen. Epinephrine is safer than waiting.
Why It Matters: Epinephrine is the only medication that actually stops anaphylaxis. Antihistamines like Benadryl do not. The most common reason a severe allergic reaction turns fatal is waiting too long to give epinephrine. Most schools, restaurants, and public places do not have an EpiPen on hand, so if your child has been prescribed one, it needs to be with them everywhere they go. Have two on hand whenever possible, since one dose sometimes is not enough.
Related Terms: Allergic Reaction, Anaphylactic Shock, Anaphylaxis, Epinephrine, Food Allergy, Hives
Written and reviewed by Jeremy Manke, Firefighter / Paramedic (22 years of emergency service)