What is an adrenaline auto-injector used for?

The device delivers a measured dose of adrenaline through the outer thigh. Adrenaline helps open narrowed airways, support blood pressure, and reduce swelling during a rapidly progressing allergic reaction. Warning signs can include sudden difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat or tongue swelling, trouble swallowing, widespread hives with weakness, or collapse. Symptoms may occur after food, a medicine, an insect sting, or another trigger, and a rash does not have to be present.

An auto-injector is a first emergency treatment, not a replacement for medical observation. Symptoms can return or worsen, so the person needs emergency assessment even if they improve after the injection.

Use the device as soon as suspected anaphylaxis develops, following its instructions, and call emergency services immediately. Keep the person lying down with legs raised when possible; allow them to sit with legs extended if breathing is difficult, and do not let them stand or walk. If symptoms do not improve or return and another device is available, follow emergency guidance about a further dose. Tell responders what triggered the reaction and when the device was used.

Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, throat swelling, faintness, confusion, blue or pale skin, collapse, or rapidly spreading allergic symptoms. Do not wait to see whether symptoms settle. After any use, the device should be replaced and the person assessed for observation, trigger review, and an ongoing allergy action plan.

Which symptoms mean I should use my device? Where should I store it, and how can I practise using a trainer? Should I carry more than one device? How do I check its expiry and arrange a replacement?