EpiPen auto-injectors are indicated
for emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) for patients
with high risk. After the administration of EpiPen, patients are advised to
seek immediate medical attention or proceed to the nearest ER.
This event was of particular
significance since Epipen has been the lone defender against anaphylactic
reactions with the nation-wide recall of Allerject back in 2015. Although the
incidence of the defect is extremely rare, it may pose a serious impact on
patients who rely heavily on the efficacy of EpiPen.
Despite the recall, Pfizer recommends patients to keep the
existing product until they can secure the replacement EpiPen. Product
Replacement Instructions can be found here.
Before using your Epipen, follow these 3 simple steps to
ensure safe/effective EpiPen use:
- Always check the expiration date (generally 1-2 years from time of purchase)!
- Examine the window of the EpiPen to make sure the solution is clear and free of any discoloration.
- Remember the instructions: “blue to the sky, orange to the thigh”
References:
CBC news. “Canadian Patients wait longest to see family doctor.” January 20, 2014.
Retrieved from http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/us-epipen-recall-1.4051059 on April 13, 2017.
Epipen. “Frequently asked questions.” 2015. Retrieved from http://www.epipen.ca/en/about-epipen/frequently-asked-questions
on April 13, 2017.
Government of Canada. “Pfizer Canada recalls two lots of
EpiPen/EpiPen Jr auto-injectors (0.3mg and 0.15mg epinephrine) due to possible
device failure.” April 01, 2017. Retrieved from http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2017/62872a-eng.php
on April 13, 2017.
Pfizer. “How do I exchange my recalled EpiPen auto-injector?”
April 01, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.pfizer.ca/node/7656
on April 13, 2017.
