Medication
Read our factsheet "Anaphylaxis the Facts" which includes information about Medication.
About adrenaline injectors
There are three adrenaline injectors available on prescription in the U.K. Please see the news section of our website for updates.
Anapen
The Anapen has a mechanism whereby, on pressing a firing button, a spring-activated plunger pushes the needle into the outer thigh muscle, delivering a single measured dose. Visit www.anapen.co.uk for more information, to watch a video demonstration and to register for expiry alerts.
Distributor: Allergy Therapeutics plc, Dominion Way, Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 8SA.
Tel: 01903 844 700. www.anapen.co.uk
EpiPen
The EpiPen has a spring-loaded concealed needle that delivers a single measured dose when the pen is jabbed against the muscle of the outer thigh. Visit www.epipen.co.uk for more information, to watch a video demonstration and to register for expiry alerts.
Distributor: Meda Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Skyway House, Parsonage Road, Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 6PU.
Tel 0845 460 0000. www.epipen.co.uk.
Jext
Jext is the most recent single-use adrenaline auto-injector to be made available. Jext has a locking needle shield which engages after use, designed to protect against needle stick injury. Visit www.jext.co.uk for more information, to watch a video demonstration and to register for expiry alerts.
Distributor: ALK-Abelló Ltd, 1 Manor Park, Manor Farm Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 0NA.
Tel: 0118 903 7940. www.jext.co.uk
Adrenaline injectors – key messages
If you or your child carries adrenaline, there are key messages you must remember:
Have your adrenaline with you at all times – no exceptions.
Check the expiry date regularly. An out-of-date injector may offer some protection, but this will be limited.
Get a health professional to show you how to use your injector. If you haven’t already been shown how, go back to the doctor who prescribed it and ask for a demonstration. Ask the practice nurse at your local GP surgery or the school nurse. AllergyWise online can help.
Get hold of a “trainer” pen and practise regularly. Contact the distributors above for details on how to obtain one.
If you suspect a reaction is serious or becoming serious, use your injector immediately – any delay could be extremely serious.
Dial 999 or get someone else to do it. Immediately after your adrenaline has been administered you will need to get to hospital because the symptoms can return and you may need further treatment.
Remember that children who have been prescribed adrenaline injectors need to go on to the adult dose when they weigh 30kg. This is likely to be somewhere between 5-11 years old.
