Epinephrine auto-injectors: an ally for allergy sufferers

Anaphylactic shock is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within seconds of exposure to an allergen and requires rapid intervention. Fortunately, there’s a portable device that can be used to temporarily reverse symptoms in an emergency. It’s called an epinephrine auto-injector and is available under the brand names EpiPen, Auvi-Q, and Emerade.

Also known as adrenaline, epinephrine is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that are responsible for your body’s fight-or-flight response. Among other things, it increases your heart rate and relaxes the muscles in your airways to improve your breathing. A synthetic version of this hormone is used in auto-injectors to ease symptoms of anaphylactic shock, which can include:

· A swollen tongue or lips, or tingling in the mouth
· Red, itchy welts (hives), flushed skin, or sudden paleness
· Wheezing, difficulty breathing, or feeling like you have a lump in your throat
· Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
· Sudden drop in blood pressure
· Abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
· A weak or rapid pulse

Since anaphylactic shock can recur hours later without further exposure to the allergen, it’s vital to head straight to an emergency room for observation and treatment after using an epinephrine auto-injector. Additionally, a second dose may be needed within five to 20 minutes of the first injection if the person’s symptoms don’t improve. Therefore, it’s best to have several auto-injectors on hand, especially if you live far from a hospital.

To learn more about these life-saving devices, consult an allergist.

Know how to use it
You shouldn’t wait until a fire breaks out to learn how to use a fire extinguisher. Similarly, waiting until you have an allergic reaction to read the instructions on your auto-injector is dangerous. It’s also important that close friends and family members be familiar with the device in case you can’t administer it yourself.