Description
EpiPen and EpiPen Jr are used to emergently treat Type I allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
EpiPen is supplied as a single-dose prefilled auto-injector containing 0.3 mg/0.3 mL.
EpiPen Jr is supplied as a single-dose prefilled auto-injector containing 0.15 mg/0.3 mL.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C9H13NO3 |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
very low oral bioavailability |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Epinephrine |
Elimination half-life |
2 minutes |
Dosage (Strength) |
JR 0.15mg (1:2000), 0.3mg (1:1000) |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
EpiPen |
Protein binding |
15–20% |
PubChem CID |
5816 |
MedlinePlus |
a603002 |
ChEBI |
28918 |
ATC code |
A01AD01 |
DrugBank |
DB00668 |
KEGG |
D00095 |
Routes of administration |
IV, IM |
Directions
Carefully read the information that is supplied with your prescription. Follow the instructions that come with your EpiPen or EpiPen Jr prescription. Reach out to your doctor or pharmacist with any questions or concerns you have.
For patients who weigh at least 30 kg (66 pounds): Inject EpiPen 0.3 mg into the muscle or under the skin of the thigh as directed by your doctor. It can be injected through clothing if needed.
For patients who weigh 15 to 30 kg (33 to 66 pounds): Inject EpiPen Jr 0.15 mg into the muscle or under the skin of the thigh as directed by your doctor. It can be injected through clothing if needed.
Ingredients
Epinephrine is the active ingredient in EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. Inactive ingredients include sodium chloride, sodium metabisulfite, hydrochloric acid, and water.
Contraindications
No known contraindications.
Cautions
- Seek emergency care with the use of EpiPen or EpiPen Jr.
- Do not inject EpiPen or EpiPen Jr into a vein or into the buttock, fingers, toes, hands, or feet.
- If administering to a young child, firmly hold the child's leg in place to minimize movement before and during injection. This can reduce the risk of injection-related injury.
- Caution should be used in patients with heart disease as epinephrine may aggravate chest pain or cause heart arrhythmias.
- Rarely, skin and soft tissue infections can occur with the use of epinephrine injection. You should seek medical care right away if you experience signs or symptoms of an infection.
Side Effects
Side effects may occur with EpiPen or EpiPen Jr, including anxiety, restlessness, apprehensiveness, tremor, weakness, dizziness, sweating, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, headache, breathing trouble, or pale skin.
Reference:
- EpiPen; EpiPen Jr. Columbia, MD: Meridian Medical Technologies, Inc.; 2020.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 1959