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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Adrenaline (for anaphylaxis)

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Adrenaline (for anaphylaxis)

  • Adrenaline auto-injectors are for the emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis.
  • Jab the device firmly into your outer thigh at a 90° angle in order to release the hidden needle and administer the dose of adrenaline.
  • Carry your adrenaline auto-injection device with you at all times and make sure you know how to use it.

About adrenaline (for anaphylaxis)

Type of medicineSympathomimetic
Used forAllergic emergencies
Also calledAnapen®
Epipen®
Epipen® Jr
Adrenaline is also called epinephrine. This is the name it may be known as if you are abroad
Available asIntramuscular injection for self-administration

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, feeling faint, 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 narrow, which stops the blood pressure from dropping; it also opens up the airways to enable easier breathing and reduces the skin itching and swelling.

Adrenaline for anaphylaxis is available in an auto-injection device which is for injection into the thigh muscle. This is given to patients at risk of anaphylaxis to inject themselves in an emergency.

Before using adrenaline for anaphylaxis

Before using adrenaline for anaphylaxis make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant.
  • If you have heart problems.
  • If you have high blood pressure.
  • If you have sugar diabetes.
  • If you have thyroid problems or phaeochromocytoma (a tumour of the adrenal gland).
  • If you have had a stroke or temporary ischaemic attack (also known as a TIA or 'mini stroke').
  • If you have glaucoma or high pressure inside the eye.
  • If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to use adrenaline for anaphylaxis

  • 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 (and any close family) 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 practise with.
  • Follow the printed instructions you receive with the injection carefully in order to avoid accidental injection.
  • 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 afterwards, as you may need further treatment. Take the used device with you in the packaging provided.
  • If your child suffers from anaphylaxis, a junior version of the auto-injection device is available.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Avoid your trigger for an anaphylactic reaction by checking the ingredients in new foods or being careful when eating or drinking outdoors in the summer when there are insects around - whichever is appropriate for you.
  • 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.
  • It is a good idea for your family and friends also to know how and when to use the auto-injection device in case you were unable to inject it yourself.
  • If you accidentally inject adrenaline into your hands, fingers or feet this will reduce the supply of blood to these areas. If this happens, you should go immediately to the nearest hospital casualty department for treatment.
  • 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 you order a new auto-injection device from your doctor as soon as possible to replace a used device.
  • 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.
  • From time to time, check the contents of the glass cartridge in your auto-injection device to make sure the solution is clear and colourless. If it contains particles or has become discoloured then replace your supply.
  • 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.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment about your allergy condition.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with adrenaline.

Can adrenaline for anaphylaxis cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
SweatingTake care not to become over-heated, and cool yourself with a damp towel if needed
Feeling or being sickStick to simple foods and eat little and often
DizzinessMake sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller
Palpitations, difficulty breathing, weakness, feeling shaky or anxiousThese feelings should soon pass but if they are severe or continue, contact your doctor

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store adrenaline for anaphylaxis

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2009DocID: 3847DocRef: dils3876Last Reviewed: 13 Nov 2009Version: 22
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