epinephrine allergy syringe (cont.)
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.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: heart problems, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, asthma, glaucoma, head trauma, diabetes, any allergies. Diabetic patients may require an increase in dosage of their medication after using the injection. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or if breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: antidepressants, digoxin, thyroid medication, antihistamines (like tripelennamine, diphenhydramine), beta-blockers (propranolol, etc.), phentolamine, certain migraine drugs (e.g., ergot alkaloids). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include fast or irregular heartbeat.
NOTES: Patients with severe allergies must be clearly instructed how and when to use this unit. Review the indications and administration procedures carefully with your doctor. Also teach a family member or close friend what to do in the event of an allergic reaction emergency. Do not try to force air out of the syringe or remove the needle cover until you are ready to use it. This is not to be injected into a vein.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store this medication at a room temperature of approximately 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from heat and sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Avoid storing this in the glove compartment or trunk of your car in the summer. If the solution is not clear or turns brown, replace the unit. Check the expiration date periodically and replace the unit before it expires.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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.
- Anaphylaxis - Read about anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) causes (insect stings, latex allergy, food allergy, medication allergy) symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows