Following some recent queries, we’ve put together a few tips to help you check whether your Adrenaline Auto-Injectors (AAIs) need replacing.
Adrenaline is the first-line treatment for serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). It is available on prescription in a pre-loaded injection device (such as EpiPen® or Jext®) and, more recently, as an intranasal, needle-free nasal spray known as Eurneffy®.
In this article, we highlight what your AAIs should look like and how to know when they need to be replaced. Please note that this guidance does not cover Eurneffy®.
1. Check that your AAIs are in date
Life can get busy, and it’s easy to lose track of expiry dates — but this is vital for your safety. To make it easier, you can sign up for a free expiry alert service from your AAI manufacturer:
If your AAIs have already expired, contact your GP as soon as possible to order a replacement. Ideally you should replace your AAIs one month before they are due to expire.
2. Check the liquid inside the device
Look at the viewing window on your EpiPen® or Jext® regularly. The liquid inside should be clear and colourless.
If the solution appears discoloured (pinkish or brownish) or contains particles, it should be replaced immediately.
A change in colour can indicate that the adrenaline has degraded, possibly due to exposure to air, heat, or light, and it may no longer be effective.
3. Store your AAIs correctly
Adrenaline can be affected by extreme temperatures, so proper storage is essential:
If you have any concerns or would like more information about how to store or use your AAIs, please refer to our Adrenaline Factsheet or contact our Helpline for further support.
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