The Whats and Hows of Epinephrine Pens

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picture of a person using epipen standing in front a brown wall
source: blawged.blogspot.co.nz

Allergies can be a great burden, causing discomfort and even pain for the individual having them. Many people suffer from them, even if they are only seasonal pollen allergies which can merely cause itchy eyes and a runny nose. These milder symptoms can be treated with simple over the counter relief medications.

Some people, however, develop severe responses to allergens. There are instances when people can’t breathe after getting stung by a bee or eating a single peanut. They may suffer major health repercussions or possibly die if they don’t receive immediate assistance. With such a severe allergic reaction there may not be enough time to go see a doctor or go to the hospital. That’s where an EpiPen comes in.

What is an EpiPen?

picture of two epipens on blue surface
source: healthline.com

An EpiPen, epinephrine injection or adrenaline pens are pen-shaped devices that deliver a dose of adrenaline to the body in an emergency. It’s a solution used to counteract the effects of anaphylactic shock, including rapid heartbeat, heartburn, swelling and difficulty breathing.

When someone accidentally comes into contact with something they are allergic to, such as peanuts or bee stings, their immune system overreacts and releases histamines into the body. Anaphylaxis can be caused by either an insect sting or a food allergy; those who are at risk should always carry an EpiPen on them in case of an emergency.

What is Epinephrine?

Epinephrine is a hormone that is naturally produced within the bodies of mammals. It increases blood sugar levels, which boosts energy and alertness when it’s needed during times of stress. In addition to being used as part of medical treatment for allergies, it has also been found to reduce fear and anxiety in some cases.

How Does it Work?

Adrenaline is delivered through an injector inside an EpiPen that works much like a fountain pen: once you push down on the tip, adrenaline shoots out through a narrow tube and into your bloodstream. The time it takes for this medication to take effect all depends on how much adrenaline is released into your body and what part of your body you’re administering it to.

If you’re injecting adrenaline into your thigh, for example, it will take longer than if you’re injecting it into your shoulder blade. The epinephrine works with your body’s natural circulatory system—it causes blood vessels to dilate and air sacs in your lungs to expand so that more oxygen can get into your blood and be circulated throughout your body.

Who Needs an EpiPen?

picture of woman using epipen over her jeans
source: epipen.ca

A lot of people need to carry around adrenaline pens because they have a known allergy that could lead to anaphylaxis. However, there are some people who need them even though they don’t have allergies. People with asthma are at higher risk of having an attack that leads to anaphylaxis.

That’s why it’s common for people with asthma to carry around their own EpiPens. Physical activity or exercise can also lead to anaphylactic symptoms, so some people will carry around an EpiPen even if they don’t have a known allergy, just in case they engage in physical activity that puts them at risk of developing something.

When Do You Not Need an EpiPen?

The EpiPen is designed to be used when someone has an allergic reaction that could lead to anaphylaxis. It’s also appropriate for people who have been diagnosed with a severe allergy and may need a dose of epinephrine in case of accidental exposure or an emergency situation.

But if you haven’t been diagnosed with a severe allergy, or don’t have previous experience with severe reactions, then you may not need an EpiPen at all. If your child has only experienced mild symptoms like sneezing or hives after eating certain foods, then there’s no need for them to carry around an EpiPen. Those symptoms will likely go away on their own without any treatment.

If your child has never had any allergic reactions at all, there’s no reason for them to carry around an EpiPen just yet. This is especially important if they’re still young and haven’t been tested yet by an allergist because there are other ways to determine whether they have allergies or not besides testing their blood serum.

How Do You Get an EpiPen?

picture of a person applying an eppipen on a boy
source: aacos.com

If you haven’t yet been prescribed an epinephrine pen but want one, you’ll need to speak with your doctor. Your doctor will perform an allergy test and determine if you need the pen-based on the severity of your allergies. You’ll need to explain what types of reactions have happened in the past and exactly how severe they have been. If your diagnosis qualifies you for a prescription, then your doctor will write you the one—usually on a three-month supply.

Final Thoughts

An EpiPen can save lives. Many people who own them never think they will need to use them, but they are there as a safety net just in case they are needed. The absolute last thing anyone should do is not get the EpiPen prescription filled or decide to leave an EpiPen at home.

That’s like not using your seatbelt in the event of an accident. An allergic reaction is unpredictable, and the symptoms can come on quickly and be severe enough to even kill someone. Why take that risk when you can carry an EpiPen around with you everywhere you go.