Epipens

EpiPen is the registered trademark for the frequently used autoinjector of epinephrine, a medicine for the treatment of anaphylactic shock. First developed by the Meridian Medical Technologies, Incorporated, EpiPens is often carried as a first aid product for people with severe allergies and individuals who are in high risk of anaphylactic shock. This has been proven to be a highly convenient alternative as it can be easily administered on oneself without any medical assistance is has been known to be very fast acting. However, both in United States and United Kingdom, EpiPens are under the list of regulated medical devices and would naturally require a prescription.

A typical EpiPen holder consist of a spring-loaded needle that effectively shoots through a membrane into the recipient’s body in order to deliver the medication. This device can be used be removing the gray colored locking cap form the top of the device and form a fist around the unit and jab it firmly to the patient’s thigh until the clicking sound can be heard, signifying the activation of the spring-loaded needle. The device should be held in place for about 10-15 seconds in order to ensure that the epinephrine is properly delivered to the patient’s body and allow the subcutaneous tissue enough time to absorb the medication. For practical reasons, not only the Epipen carrier should be adept in administering this medication, family members and people who are in close contact should also be knowledgeable and properly trained in the event that the patient should require any assistance.

The drug is not allowed to be administered intravenously as this have been proven to be highly lethal since epinephrine is known to be a vascular constrictor and can possibly restrict the blood of blood to the injection site and could result to damage to the limbs and extremities. Additionally, intravenous applications of EpiPens can cause ventricular tachychardia, or an abnormally rapid heartbeat because the said medication can cause the patient’s heartbeat to accelerate. This is the main reason why regular medical check should be strictly followed as well as the proper administering of the EpiPens should always be guided by a professional medical doctor to prevent adverse effects. The standard dosage of an EpiPen shot is 0.3 ml pf 1 in 1000 parts and children as only given 0.15 mg using the EpiPen Junior. It has a shelf life of approximately 12 months. However, if you notice any unusual discoloration, it should be disregarded right away or return it to the local drugstore for a safer disposal.

Most allergic reactions can be triggered by a number of environmental factors such as spider venom, insect and snakebites, pollen and some forms of medications. A lot of people who are well aware that they can actually experience some serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reactions should carry and EpiPen all the time, as prescribed by their doctors. Usually, any anaphylactic exposure can occur within the first 20 minutes of the patient’s exposure to allergens, although the speed can vary depending on the severity of the reaction. Among the immediate symptoms include but not limited to difficulty in breathing, shock-weak pulse and wheezing, rapid heartbeat decreased mental status and low blood pressure. That is why timely and efficient action is highly important when such allergic reactions occur, and the medication should always be made available within easy reach at all times. Since a usual anaphylactic shock can close the airways, prompt medical assistance should be provided even after administering EpiPen. It is also equally important to constantly check the expiration of the EpiPen since it can possibly cause adverse effects. Even if you are highly prone to serious allergic reactions, you can hurdle life-threatening situations with prompt action and adequate medical preparation.