Epipen (Epinephrine Auto Injector) Drug Overview of Side Effects and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Epipen

Bee and Wasp Sting »

Insect stings overview

Bee and wasp stings are common causes of medical problems. Bees and wasps, together with fire ants, are all related insects that belong to the Hymenoptera order. Bee and wasp stings can cause significant reactions, ranging from localized pain and swelling to serious and even potentially fatal conditions. At least 40 deaths occur each year in the U.S. as a result of bee or wasp stings.

What are the types of wasps?

There are over 25,000 species of wasps found throughout the world. Some of the most common wasps include:

The yellow jacket and hornet, both of which live in groups, or colonies, in temperate climates.
Yellow jackets, which have black and yellow stripes on the abdomen, form underground nests.
Hornets are predominantly black with some yellow markings on the head and thorax. Hornets form paper-like nests that are attached to trees, bush...

Read the Bee and Wasp Sting article »

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Epipen Consumer (continued)

SIDE EFFECTS: A fast/pounding heartbeat, nervousness, sweating, nausea, vomiting, trouble breathing, headache, dizziness, anxiety, shakiness, or pale skin may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat.

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest pain, fainting, vision changes, seizures, confusion.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This product may contain sulfites. However, if you have a sulfite allergy, this should not be a reason for avoiding use of this medication during an emergency. Since epinephrine can be life-saving, using it is more important than avoiding any sulfite-related problems you may experience.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart conditions (e.g., coronary artery disease, arrhythmias), high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes.

This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

The elderly may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, especially a rapid rise in blood pressure, with increased risk if they also have heart disease.

This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.