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Scroll down or Click Here forAnaphylaxis is a severe systemic allergic reaction resulting from exposure to allergens that is rapid in onset and can cause death.1,2 As such, anaphylaxis action plans are an essential component for emergency preparedness. An example of an action plan from AAAAI is available for download here. Most plans list common signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and emphasize the importance of using the EpiPen® (epinephrine) Auto-Injector promptly and calling 911 and seeking emergency medical services. These plans should also be personalized for each at-risk patient by listing comorbidities and concurrent medications, describing the EpiPen® (epinephrine) Auto-Injector dose prescribed for the patient, and providing appropriate contact telephone numbers, such as those of family members or caregivers. Anaphylaxis action plans need to be updated and discussed with the patient, and if relevant, his or her caregivers, on a regular basis.3 It is also important that physicians discuss the plan with nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and/or office staff so that they can reinforce the details of the plan with the patient and/or caregiver.
To download a sample action plan from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Web site, please click here.
EpiPen® (epinephrine) 0.3 mg and EpiPen Jr® (epinephrine) 0.15 mg Auto-Injectors are indicated in the emergency treatment of type 1 allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, to allergens, idiopathic and exercise-induced anaphylaxis, and in patients with a history or increased risk of anaphylactic reactions. Selection of the appropriate dosage strength is determined according to body weight.
EpiPen Auto-Injectors should only be injected into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh. DO NOT INJECT INTO BUTTOCK, OR INTRAVENOUSLY.
Epinephrine should be used with caution in patients with certain heart diseases, and in patients who are on drugs that may sensitize the heart to arrhythmias, because it may precipitate or aggravate angina pectoris and produce ventricular arrhythmias. Arrhythmias, including fatal ventricular fibrillation, have been reported in patients with underlying cardiac disease or taking cardiac glycosides or diuretics. Patients with certain medical conditions or who take certain medications for allergies, depression, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and hypertension, may be at greater risk for adverse reactions. Other adverse reactions include transient moderate anxiety, apprehensiveness, restlessness, tremor, weakness, dizziness, sweating, palpitations, pallor, nausea and vomiting, headache, and/or respiratory difficulties.
EpiPen and EpiPen Jr Auto-Injectors are intended for immediate self-administration as emergency supportive therapy only and are not intended as a substitute for immediate medical or hospital care.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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