Generic Name: epinephrine

How should I use epinephrine injection?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Seek emergency medical attention even after you use this medication to treat a severe allergic reaction. The effects of epinephrine injection may wear off after 10 or 20 minutes. You will need to receive further treatment and observation.

The auto-injector device this medicine comes in is a disposable single-use system that contains a spring-loaded needle. Epinephrine injection comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Do not remove the safety cap until you are ready to use the auto-injector. Never put your fingers over the tip when removing the safety cap or after the safety cap has been removed.

To use an epinephrine auto-injector:

• Form a fist around the auto-injector with the black tip pointing down. Pull off the safety cap.

• Place the black tip against the fleshy portion of your outer thigh. You may give the injection directly through your clothing. Do not put your thumb over the end of the unit.

• With a quick motion, push the auto-injector firmly against your thigh. This will release the spring-loaded needle that injects the dose of epinephrine. Hold the auto-injector in place for a few seconds after activation.

• Remove the auto-injector from your thigh. Carefully re-insert the used device needle-first into the carrying tube. Re-cap the tube and take it with you to the emergency room so that anyone who treats you will know how much epinephrine you have received.

• Use each auto-injector only one time. Even though a small amount of liquid may remain inside the unit, throw it away after one use.

Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has any particles in it, or if the expiration date printed on the label has passed. Call your doctor for a new prescription. Store this medication at room temperature away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Do not refrigerate this medication, and do not store it in a car.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since epinephrine is normally used only as needed in an emergency, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule. Do not use repeat doses of epinephrine injection without a doctor's advice.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include fast, pounding, or uneven heart rate, sudden and severe headache, loss of feeling in any part of the body, or sudden problems with vision, speech, or balance.

What should I avoid while using epinephrine ?

Do not inject epinephrine into a vein or into the muscles of your buttocks. Inject it only into the fleshy outer portion of the thigh. Accidentally injecting epinephrine into your hands or feet may result in a loss of blood flow to those areas, and resulting numbness. If this occurs, seek emergency medical attention.