Epinephrine Combination Package
COMMON BRAND(S): Auvi-Q, Epipen, Twinject
GENERIC NAME(S): Epinephrine
OTHER NAME(S): Epinephrine Combination Package
Uses
This medication is used in emergencies to treat very serious allergic reactions to insect stings/bites, foods, drugs, or other substances. Epinephrine acts quickly to improve breathing, stimulate the heart, raise a dropping blood pressure, reverse hives, and reduce swelling of the face, lips, and throat.
How to use Epinephrine Combination Package
Keep this product near you at all times. (See also Storage section).
Different brands of this medication have different directions for preparing and using the injector. Learn how to properly inject this medication in advance so you will be prepared when you actually need to use it. Also teach a family member or caregiver what to do if you cannot inject the medication yourself. For infants and children, make sure to hold their leg in place before and during the injection of the medication to prevent injuries from occurring. Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you have to use epinephrine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
The effects of this medication are rapid but not long-lasting. After injecting epinephrine, get medical help right away. Tell the healthcare professional that you have given yourself an injection of epinephrine. Avoid injecting this medication into your hands, feet, buttocks, or areas of your body other than the thigh. If this occurs, tell the healthcare professional right away. Discard the injector properly.
The solution in this product should be clear. Check this product visually for particles or discoloration from time to time. If it has turned cloudy or pink/brown in color, do not use the product. Obtain a new supply.
Also, check that the product comes out of its carrying case easily before you have an emergency. If it does not, consult your pharmacist.
Side Effects
Fast/pounding heartbeat, nervousness, sweating, nausea, vomiting, trouble breathing, headache, dizziness, anxiety, shakiness, or pale skin may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: irregular heartbeat, signs of infection at the injection site (such as redness that doesn't go away, warmth, swelling, or pain).
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: chest pain, fainting, vision changes, seizures, confusion.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
This product may contain sulfites. However, if you have a sulfite allergy, this should not be a reason for avoiding use of this medication during an emergency. Since epinephrine can be life-saving, using it is more important than avoiding any sulfite-related problems you may experience.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart conditions (e.g., coronary artery disease, arrhythmias), high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes.
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially a rapid rise in blood pressure.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using this medication.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (such as prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug are: beta-blockers (such as propranolol).
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include irregular heartbeat, fainting, vision changes, confusion, seizures.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose
Not applicable.
Storage
Store this product in the carrying case/original packaging at room temperature away from light and moisture. Avoid extreme heat and cold. Do not store this medication in your vehicle or in the bathroom. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
From time to time, check the expiration date, and also check this product visually for particles or discoloration. Replace the unit before it expires or if particles/discoloration are present. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this medication when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.Information last revised February 2019. Copyright(c) 2019 First Databank, Inc.
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