What should you know about anaphylactic shock pen?

The device is a prefilled adrenaline auto-injector intended for a severe allergic reaction. Adrenaline helps open the airways and support blood pressure. Warning signs can include difficult or noisy breathing, tongue or throat swelling, a hoarse voice, persistent dizziness, collapse, or rapidly developing symptoms in several body systems.

A skin rash alone can have many causes and does not by itself establish anaphylaxis. People who have been prescribed a device should follow their personal allergy action plan and learn the instructions for their specific brand, because activation methods differ.

Remove the safety mechanism as shown on the device, place the correct end firmly against the outer mid-thigh, and activate it according to its instructions. It can generally be given through clothing if necessary, but avoid seams, pockets, and objects in the way. Note the time, call emergency services in the UAE, and say that anaphylaxis is suspected.

Keep the person lying down unless breathing is difficult, in which case a supported sitting position may help. Do not let them stand or walk. If symptoms continue or return, follow the emergency plan regarding another prescribed device. Give the used injector to ambulance staff.

Every use of an adrenaline auto-injector should be followed by emergency medical assessment. Call at once for breathing difficulty, throat tightness, swelling of the tongue, fainting, collapse, confusion, or a sudden severe reaction after a likely allergen. If uncertain during a rapidly worsening reaction and the device was prescribed for that person, follow the individual emergency plan.

Do not delay adrenaline while searching for an antihistamine, and do not rely on improvement in a rash as proof that the reaction is over. Emergency clinicians can monitor the airway, breathing, circulation, and any return of symptoms.

Ask your clinician to demonstrate your exact auto-injector and let you practise with a trainer device. Discuss when to use it, how many prescribed devices to carry, storage in UAE heat, expiry checks, replacement after use, and how to make your action plan accessible at home, work, or school.