The auto-injector is a disposable drug delivery system that contains the proper dose of epinephrine and is used to treat anaphylaxis. It is supplied as a spring-loaded syringe that can be easily transported with you everywhere you go. This disposable system is designed to treat a single anaphylactic episode and must be properly discarded after its use.

The EpiPen^®/EpiPen^® Jr Auto-Injector

The EpiPen^® auto-injector is a disposable drug delivery system featuring spring activation and a concealed needle. It is designed for self-administration of epinephrine in acute allergic emergencies (anaphylaxis). It provides a rapid, convenient dose of epinephrine for individuals needing protection from potentially fatal allergic reactions.

EpiPen^® Contains Epinephrine

The drug product in EpiPen^® is epinephrine. Epinephrine by injection is the treatment of choice for allergic emergencies (anaphylactic reactions) because it quickly begins working to reverse symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction. It constricts blood vessels, relaxes smooth muscles in the lungs to improve breathing, stimulates the heartbeat, and works to reverse hives and swelling around the face and lips (angioedema). The effects of epinephrine usually last 10 to 20 minutes.

EpiPen^® is Not Reusable

Each EpiPen^® auto-injector delivers a single dose of epinephrine. Even though liquid remains inside an auto-injector after use, the unit cannot be used again.

Disposing of EpiPen^® After Use

The EpiPen^® auto-injector is intended for emergency use only. After use, you should seek further medical help immediately. At the same time, try to keep warm and avoid unnecessary exertion. The effects of the injection begin to wear off after 10 to 20 minutes; therefore, it is important to seek further medical assistance. If you cannot go to an emergency room, call 911 for assistance. Make sure you inform the health professionals who will treat you that you have given yourself an injection of epinephrine. Take the EpiPen^® auto-injector with you to the hospital emergency room and ask the doctor or nurse to dispose of it for you. This will ensure that the doctor knows you have had a shot of epinephrine and what amount you received. To aid in the transport of your EpiPen^® auto-injector to the hospital for disposal, carefully place the used auto-injector (without bending the needle), needle-end first, into the storage tube of the carrying case that provides built-in needle protection after use. Then screw the cap of the storage tube back on completely and take it with you to the hospital emergency room.