What should you know about using an EpiPen for anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a sudden, serious allergic reaction that can affect breathing, circulation, and several parts of the body. Possible signs include swelling of the lips or tongue, throat tightness, trouble breathing, wheezing, widespread hives, vomiting, dizziness, or collapse. A [Food Allergy](/conditions/food-allergy/) is one possible trigger, but medicines, insect stings, and other exposures can also cause a reaction.

Adrenaline works quickly to support the airway and circulation, but an auto-injector is emergency first aid rather than a complete hospital treatment. Do not wait for every symptom to appear if anaphylaxis is suspected.

Follow the instructions for your prescribed device and use it through the outer thigh, including through clothing if the device instructions allow. Keep the person lying down with legs raised when possible; allow someone who is struggling to breathe to sit with legs extended. Do not let them stand or walk. Call emergency services immediately, state that anaphylaxis is suspected, and tell responders when adrenaline was given.

If symptoms do not improve or return and another prescribed injector is available, follow the person’s emergency plan regarding a further dose. Stay with them, monitor breathing, and do not give food or drink to someone who is drowsy or having difficulty swallowing. Arrange an [Anaphylaxis Emergency Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/anaphylaxis-emergency-treatment/) plan after recovery.

Use the auto-injector and call emergency services immediately for breathing difficulty, throat or tongue swelling, faintness, collapse, or a rapidly spreading reaction after a likely allergen exposure. Hospital observation is needed even if the person feels better, because symptoms can return. If the injector was used accidentally, seek medical advice promptly.

Ask how to recognise this person’s early warning signs, where to carry the injector, when a second injector may be needed, and how family, school, or workplace contacts should respond. Discuss [Allergy Testing](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/allergy-testing/) and obtain a written emergency plan.