epinephrine allergy syringe, Ana-Guard
GENERIC NAME: EPINEPHRINE ALLERGY SYRINGE (ep-in-EFF-rin)
BRAND NAME(S): Ana-Guard
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used in emergencies to treat potentially dangerous allergic reactions to insect stings or bites, foods, drugs or other substances. It is also used for severe asthma attacks.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection either subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly and is designed to be self-administered. To use, twist and remove the container cap. Remove the syringe from its container. Remove (by pulling off) the plastic needle cover. Expel any air and excess drug from the syringe by pointing the needle straight up into the air and pushing the plunger until the plunger stops. Rotate the rectangular plunger 1/4 turn to the right to align with the slot in the barrel of the syringe. Wipe injection site with an alcohol swab if one is readily available. Even if none are available, proceed to next step. Insert the needle straight into the upper arm or upper thigh. (Do not insert needle near a vein.) Push the plunger until it stops. Syringe will automatically inject a 0.3ml (milliliter) dose sufficient for adults and those over 12 years of age. For children less than 12 years old administer the following amount in mls (milliliters): infants to 2 years of age - 0.05ml to 0.1ml; 2 to 6 years of age - 0.15ml; 6 to 12 years - 0.2ml., The effects of this medication should be felt within seconds. If after 10 minutes the symptoms are not significantly better, use a second injection. To prepare the syringe for the second injection turn the plunger 1/4 turn to the right. It may be necessary to wiggle the plunger a little to get it to turn and align with the slot. If one is available, wipe the intended injection site with an alcohol swab prior to inserting the needle into the arm/leg. Even if alcohol swabs are not available, proceed to inject the second dose in a spot different from where the first one was given as directed above. After use discard the unit properly. If a second injection is not needed discard that unit. Do not store it for later use. Contact your doctor as soon as possible. Try to keep warm and avoid exertion. Tell the health care professional you have given yourself an injection of epinephrine.
SIDE EFFECTS: You may feel slight nervousness and an increased heart rate soon after the injection. A pounding heartbeat, sweating, nausea, vomiting, breathing trouble, headache, dizziness and anxiety may also occur. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain (angina). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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