Important Changes to EpiPen® Procedure

EpiPen® and EpiPen®Jr adrenaline (epinephrine) autoinjectors with the 3 second label will start to enter pharmacies in Australia and New Zealand from 13 June 2017 onwards.

The devices have not changed, just the instructions on the label, which now include:

• Reduced injection time from 10 to 3 seconds – this is based on research confirming efficacy and delivery of adrenaline through the 3 second delivery.

• Removal of the massage step after the injection – this has been found to reduce the risk of tissue irritation.

Whilst it is important that anyone who requires anaphylaxis training (including school and early childhood education/care staff) are aware of the changes, there is no need for immediate re-training on the 3 second EpiPen®.

EpiPen®s with a 10 second label can continue to be used and should not be replaced unless they have been used, are just about to expire or have expired.

All EpiPen®s should now be held in place for 3 seconds, regardless of the instructions on the label. However, if they are held for 10 seconds it will not affect the way that the adrenaline works.

Information Sourced: www.allergy.org.au

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