Adrenaline (for Anaphylaxis)

About Adrenaline

This belongs to the group of medicines known as sympathomimetics

Adrenaline can be used as emergency treatment for anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe form of allergic reaction to triggers such as peanuts, foods, drugs, insect bites or stings. People who have asthma, eczema or allergies are more likely to experience anaphylaxis.

An anaphylactic reaction can start within minutes of coming into contact with a trigger. Symptoms are itching, rash, flushing, feeling or being sick, abdominal pain, swelling of the eyes, lips and tongue and difficulty breathing. If the reaction is not treated immediately it can lead to a large fall in blood pressure and unconsciousness.

Adrenaline is a naturally occurring chemical that is produced by the body in response to stress. An injection of Adrenaline helps to relieve the symptoms of anaphylaxis by causing the blood vessels to constrict which stops the blood pressure from dropping; it also opens up the airways to enable easier breathing and reduces the itching and swelling.

Adrenaline is also called Epinephrine. This is the name it may be known as if you are abroad. Both names may appear on the packaging of your medicine.

Adrenaline is available in auto-injection form. This is given to patients at risk of anaphylaxis to inject themselves in an emergency.

It is also sometimes known as: Epipen; Anapen. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Adrenaline

Before using Adrenaline make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney or heart problems
• if you suffer from high blood pressure
• if you suffer from diabetes mellitus or phaeochromocytoma (a tumour of the adrenal gland)
• if you suffer from asthma
• if you suffer from thyroid or prostate problems
• if you suffer from glaucoma or high pressure inside the eye
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Adrenaline

• Before prescribing Adrenaline your doctor will have explained when you should use the auto-injection device. If you are not sure about anything ask your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet very carefully when you collect your medicine. Make sure you know how to use the injection device so that if you have to use it in an emergency you can do it easily. If you are unsure about anything ask your doctor or pharmacist. They may have a dummy injection device that you could practice with.
• Follow the printed instructions you receive with the medicine carefully.
• If you need to use the device, inject it into the muscle on your outer thigh. It can be done through light clothing if necessary.
• When you have injected it as instructed there will still be some liquid left in the device. This is normal; you will have received your full dose.
• If you do have to use the injection contact your doctor or go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department immediately after as you may need further treatment. Take the packaging of the medicine with you.
• After you have used the injection device make sure it is disposed of carefully.
• If your child suffers from anaphylaxis a junior version of the auto-injection device is available.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Adrenaline contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Adrenaline.
• Avoid your trigger for an anaphylactic reaction. Check the ingredients in new foods or be careful when eating or drinking outdoors in the summer as insects may be attracted.
• If your child has been prescribed the Adrenaline auto-injection device teach them what they need to do and what triggers they need to avoid. Discuss it with their teacher or carer so that they can act quickly in an emergency.
• Carry your Adrenaline auto-injection device with you at all times. You may be given two so that you can keep one at home.
• Make sure that the Adrenaline auto-injection device you have is still in date. Some manufacturers run a reminder scheme to let you know when you need to order a new one.
• It is a good idea for your family and friends to also know how and when to use the auto-injection device in case you were unable to inject it yourself.
• If you have used your Adrenaline auto-injection device make sure you order a new one from your doctor as soon as possible to replace it.
• Important: If you accidentally inject Adrenaline into your hand, foot or a blood vessel go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital immediately. Take the packaging with you.
• It is not advisable to drive immediately after using the Adrenaline auto-injection device as you could still be suffering from symptoms of anaphylaxis. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs, which could be dangerous, if you are not fully alert.
• If you have diabetes and have used the Adrenaline injection, discuss your treatment with your doctor. You may need to change the dose of your diabetes medicine for a while.

Can Adrenaline cause problems?

Fast heartbeat, sweating, feeling or being sick, problems breathing, pale skin, weakness, shakiness, headache, nervousness, worry, cold hands and feet, redness and soreness where it was injected. Seeing or hearing things that aren't real, fainting, difficulty urinating.

If you experience any other worrying side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, not mentioned in this leaflet, discuss them with your pharmacist or doctor.

How to store Adrenaline

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS 2005   Updated: 18/01/2005