About adrenaline devices (Anapen® and EpiPen®)

On this page

ADRENALINE (EPINEPHRINE) IS LIFE SAVING medication for someone experiencing a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

An adrenaline device contains one dose of adrenaline. 

Adrenaline is the first line emergency treatment for anaphylaxis. Adrenaline devices are designed to be used by anyone in an emergency.

Brands and doses of adrenaline devices

There are two different brands of adrenaline device available in Australia – Anapen® and EpiPen®. They are both adrenaline injector devices.

The dose of the adrenaline device is worked out by weight. Weight guidelines for adrenaline device can also be found on the bottom left-hand corner of ASCIA Action Plans.

If you are over 50kg, it is important to discuss which adrenaline device is right for you with your doctor.

What do adrenaline devices look like?

Anapen®

• Below shows what the Anapen® looks like before use, after use and the case.
• The Anapen® does not come with a case. However you can ask your pharmacist to give you one when you get your Anapen®.
• Used Anapen® devices will fit in the case. When used, the needle is exposed and there is a risk of needle stick injury. Carefully place the Anapen® back into the Anapen® case once it has been used.

EpiPen®

• Below shows what the EpiPen® looks like before use, after use and the case.
• The EpiPen® comes with a case with either a green or yellow lid.
• Used EpiPen® devices will not fit in the case. When used, the needle is covered by the extended orange needle shield so there is no risk of needle stick injury.

Adrenaline devices are given in the outer mid thigh

There is a large muscle in the outer mid-thigh. Injecting adrenaline into this muscle helps get the adrenaline to the rest of the body quickly. The adrenaline device can be given through clothing.

Remember: hold the leg still if you are giving an adrenaline device to someone else as they may move unexpectantly.

 How to give adrenaline devices

Remember, each adrenaline device has instructions on the label of the device itself.

See our FAQs for using adrenaline devices for more information.

Adrenaline training devices

It is important to practice giving an adrenaline device. Using a training device is a great way to do this. It contains no needle or medication and can be reused.

If your child is at risk of anaphylaxis, practicing with them can help you think about how you may need to hold them if you had to give the adrenaline device. It may also help the child understand what would happen if they had anaphylaxis.

It is important to store you training device away for the real adrenaline devices. You may wish to mark the training device with tape or a sticker to highlight that it is not the real thing.

You can buy Adrenaline training devices from our online shop.

Expiry dates

• Adrenaline devices usually expire after 12 to 18 months.
• Expired adrenaline devices are not as effective at treating anaphylaxis (but should still be given if it is the only adrenaline device available).
• Make a note of when your adrenaline devices are due to expire and book an appointment for a new prescription with your doctor or nurse practitioner.

See our FAQs for buying adrenaline injectors for more information.

Additional reading

Adrenaline device resources from ASCIA (the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy):

• ASCIA Adrenaline (Epinephrine) Devices – Fast Facts
• ASCIA Adrenaline Device FAQs
• ASCIA Adrenaline Devices for general use