Adrenaline Auto-Injectors (EpiPens)
Information about how to check and use EpiPens correctly.
What you need to know about your EpiPens
If you have been prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen) because you are at risk of anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction), make sure you are prepared.
Check your EpiPens
You should check that:
- your EpiPens are still in date. You can set up a free EpiPen expiry alert reminder.
- you have two EpiPens at all times.
- you have the correct EpiPens for your weight.
Contact your practice to arrange a replacement prescription if your EpiPens are out of date or if you don’t have two available EpiPens.
Check that you have the correct EpiPen for your weight
The strength of EpiPen prescribed depends on body weight:
- EpiPen Junior 0.15 mg: for children weighing 7.5 kg to 30 kg
- EpiPen 0.3 mg: for individuals weighing more than 30 kg
Make sure that you (or your child) have been prescribed the correct EpiPen for your (or your child’s) current weight.
If your child has gained weight or is now over 30 kg, contact the practice to change their EpiPen.
Make sure you know how to use your EpiPen
It is important to know how to use your EpiPen before you need it in an emergency.
Watch the EpiPen demonstration video to refresh your knowledge of how to use an EpiPen.
You are recommended to watch the video regularly so that you are familiar with how to use your EpiPen.
Signs of anaphylaxis and correct positioning
What to do in an emergency
If you have any signs of anaphylaxis, use your EpiPen immediately. If in doubt, use it. Don’t delay.
Immediately dial 999 and say “anaphylaxis” (“ana-fill-axis”).
If you are not already lying down, then do so. See the positioning guidance.
Use your second EpiPen if you haven’t improved after 5 minutes.
Recognise the signs of anaphylaxis
A - Airways
Swelling in the throat, tongue or upper airways. Tightening of the throat, hoarse voice or difficulty swallowing.
B - Breathing
Sudden onset wheezing, breathing difficulty or noisy breathing.
C - Circulation
Dizziness, feeling faint, sudden sleepiness, tiredness, confusion, pale clammy skin or loss of consciousness.
Correct positioning
- Lie down flat and raise your legs.
- If pregnant, lie down on your left side.
- Prop yourself up if you are struggling to breathe, but don’t change position suddenly. Lie down again as soon as you can.
- Don’t stand up. Stay lying down even if you are feeling better.