How to Use an EpiPen — Anaphylaxis Emergency Guide | KiwiMeds

Signs of Anaphylaxis — Use the EpiPen if You See:

• Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Skin rash, hives, or widespread redness
• Sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness, or collapse
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain after exposure to a known allergen

How to Use an EpiPen — Step by Step

1. 1
   Call 111 first (or have someone call while you administer).
2. 2
   Remove the EpiPen from its carrier tube. Hold it in your dominant hand with your thumb closest to the blue safety cap.
3. 3
   Pull off the blue safety cap with your other hand. Do not put your thumb over the orange tip.
4. 4
   Place the orange tip against the outer mid-thigh — you can inject through clothing. Hold firmly.
5. 5
   Push down hard until you hear a click — this releases the needle and injects the adrenaline.
6. 6
   Hold firmly for 10 seconds, then remove. Massage the injection site gently for 10 seconds.
7. 7
   The orange tip will extend to cover the needle. Place the used EpiPen back in the carrier tube and give it to the paramedics.
8. 8
   Lie down with legs raised (or sit up if breathing is difficult). Do not stand up.
9. 9
   If symptoms do not improve after 5–10 minutes and a second EpiPen is available, inject a second dose in the other thigh. Always go to hospital even if symptoms improve — effects can return.

Storing and Checking Your EpiPen

• Room temperature storage (15–25°C) — do not refrigerate or freeze. Do not leave in a hot car.
• Keep in the carrier tube to protect from light and damage.
• Check the expiry date — replace before it expires. Most EpiPens are valid for 18 months.
• Check the solution through the window — it should be clear and colourless. Do not use if cloudy, discoloured, or contains particles.
• Always carry two EpiPens — a second dose may be needed in severe reactions.

EpiPen in New Zealand

In NZ, EpiPens (adrenaline 0.3mg adult / 0.15mg EpiPen Jr for children 15–30kg) are funded by Pharmac on prescription. If you or your child has a known severe allergy (e.g. to peanuts, bee stings, shellfish), ask your doctor for a prescription and an Anaphylaxis Action Plan. Practice using a trainer device (available at pharmacies) so you and your family are prepared.