EPIPEN Solution for injection Ref.[50954] Active ingredients: Epinephrine

Source: FDA, National Drug Code (US)  Revision Year: 2023 

1. Indications and Usage

EpiPen and EpiPen Jr are indicated in the emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type I) including anaphylaxis to stinging insects (e.g., order Hymenoptera, which include bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and fire ants) and biting insects (e.g., triatoma, mosquitoes), allergen immunotherapy, foods, drugs, diagnostic testing substances (e.g., radiocontrast media) and other allergens, as well as idiopathic anaphylaxis or exercise-induced anaphylaxis.

EpiPen and EpiPen Jr are intended for immediate administration in patients who are determined to be at increased risk for anaphylaxis, including individuals with a history of anaphylactic reactions.

Anaphylactic reactions may occur within minutes after exposure and consist of flushing, apprehension, syncope, tachycardia, thready or unobtainable pulse associated with a fall in blood pressure, convulsions, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps, involuntary voiding, wheezing, dyspnea due to laryngeal spasm, pruritus, rashes, urticaria or angioedema.

EpiPen and EpiPen Jr are intended for immediate administration as emergency supportive therapy only and are not a substitute for immediate medical care.

2. Dosage and Administration

2.1 Recommended Dosage According to Patient Body Weight

  • Patients greater than or equal to 30 kg (approximately 66 pounds or more): EpiPen 0.3 mg
  • Patients 15 kg to 30 kg (33 pounds to 66 pounds): EpiPen Jr 0.15 mg

2.2 Administration Instructions

  • Inject the single-dose EpiPen or EpiPen Jr intramuscularly or subcutaneously into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh, through clothing if necessary. Do not inject intravenously, and do not inject into buttocks, into digits, hands or feet [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
  • Instruct caregivers of young children who are prescribed an EpiPen or EpiPen Jr and who may be uncooperative and kick or move during an injection to hold the leg firmly in place and limit movement prior to and during an injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
  • Each EpiPen or EpiPen Jr is a single-dose epinephrine injection for single use. Since the doses of epinephrine delivered from EpiPen or EpiPen Jr are fixed, consider using other forms of injectable epinephrine if doses lower than 0.15 mg are deemed necessary.
  • With severe persistent anaphylaxis, repeat injections with an additional EpiPen or EpiPen Jr may be necessary. More than two sequential doses of epinephrine should only be administered under direct medical supervision [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
  • The epinephrine solution in the clear window of the EpiPen or EpiPen Jr Auto-Injector should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration.

Discarding After Use

The EpiPen and EpiPen Jr each contain 2 mL epinephrine solution. Approximately 1.7 mL remains in the auto-injector after activation, but is not available for future use, and should be discarded.

10. Overdosage

Overdosage of epinephrine may produce extremely elevated arterial pressure, which may result in cerebrovascular hemorrhage, particularly in elderly patients. Overdosage may also result in pulmonary edema because of peripheral vascular constriction together with cardiac stimulation. Treatment consists of rapidly acting vasodilators or alpha-adrenergic blocking drugs and/or respiratory support.

Epinephrine overdosage can also cause transient bradycardia followed by tachycardia, and these may be accompanied by potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Premature ventricular contractions may appear within one minute after injection and may be followed by multifocal ventricular tachycardia (prefibrillation rhythm). Subsidence of the ventricular effects may be followed by atrial tachycardia and occasionally by atrioventricular block. Treatment of arrhythmias consists of administration of a beta-adrenergic blocking drug such as propranolol.

Overdosage sometimes results in extreme pallor and coldness of the skin, metabolic acidosis, and kidney failure. Suitable corrective measures must be taken in such situations.

16.2. Storage and Handling

  • Protect from light. Epinephrine is light sensitive and should be stored in the carrier tube provided to protect it from light.
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
  • Do not refrigerate.
  • Before using, check to make sure the solution in the auto-injector is clear and colorless.
  • Replace the auto-injector if the solution is discolored (pinkish or brown color), cloudy, or contains particle.
  • Properly dispose all used, unwanted or expired EpiPen and EpiPen Jr auto-injectors.

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