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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using epinephrine injection?

To make sure you can safely use epinephrine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• heart disease or high blood pressure;
• a heart rhythm disorder;
• coronary artery disease;
• Parkinson's disease;
• diabetes; or
• a thyroid disorder.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether epinephrine will harm an unborn baby. If possible before using this medicine, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

Do not use epinephrine without your doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

In an emergency situation, it may not be possible before you use epinephrine to tell your caregivers if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you have received this medication.

How should I use epinephrine injection?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

The auto-injector device this medicine comes in is a disposable single-use system that contains a spring-loaded needle. Epinephrine injection comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Do not remove the safety cap until you are ready to use the auto-injector. Never put your fingers over the tip when removing the safety cap or after the safety cap has been removed.

To use an epinephrine auto-injector:

• Form a fist around the auto-injector with the black tip pointing down. Pull off the safety cap.
• Place the black tip against the fleshy portion of your outer thigh. You may give the injection directly through your clothing. Do not put your thumb over the end of the unit.
• With a quick motion, push the auto-injector firmly against your thigh. This will release the spring-loaded needle that injects the dose of epinephrine. Hold the auto-injector in place for a few seconds after activation.
• Remove the auto-injector from your thigh. Carefully re-insert the used device needle-first into the carrying tube. Re-cap the tube and take it with you to the emergency room so that anyone who treats you will know how much epinephrine you have received.
• Use each auto-injector only one time. Throw away after one use, even if there is still some medicine left in it.

Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has any particles in it, or if the expiration date on the label has passed. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not refrigerate this medication, and do not store it in a car.

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