Using an adrenaline (epinephrine) injector FAQ

Can I give a second dose of adrenaline into the same leg or same nostril?

Adrenaline injectors (EpiPen®, Anapen®) are injected into the thigh muscle. There is no evidence that injecting the second dose of adrenaline into the same thigh muscle as the first dose is a problem. The most…

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What happens if something goes wrong with my adrenaline device?

It is very rare for something to go wrong with an adrenaline device. In an emergency where you are treating anaphylaxis, if the adrenaline device has not worked and you have another…

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How do I dispose of an adrenaline device?

Adrenaline injectors  Used and unused (and expired) adrenaline injectors contain a needle that can be dangerous if not handled carefully. They should never be thrown in the regular or recycling bin.  Unused, expired…

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Do I need to check if the adrenaline in the injector is still clear, or if the adrenaline device has expired? 

Adrenaline injectors Anapen® and EpiPen® both have windows on the devices to check to see what the fluid (adrenaline) inside the injector looks like.    The adrenaline nasal…

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Can a different dose or brand be given to a person having anaphylaxis if the prescribed adrenaline device is not available?

Currently, the only adrenaline injector available in Australia is EpiPen® and EpiPen®Jnr.   Anapen® 500 is unavailable and Anapen® 150 and 300 have been discontinued.  From…

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