Do you have a child with a severe food allergy? Do they need an EpiPen? Then you need to read this.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has just announced changes to way Australians should administer EpiPens.
Whether you have a child with anaphylaxis or know someone else who has, it’s important to know the new recommended way to administer an EpiPen, just in case.
Although these changes to how to use an EpiPen have been in place in the USA since 2016, they have only recently been introduced to Aussie families. The changes are for both EpiPen and EpiPen Jr.
What parents need to know about the EpiPen changes
Although the devices have not changed, the instructions on the label have. The two changes are:
- Reduced injection time from 10 to three seconds – this is based on research confirming delivery of adrenaline through the three second delivery time.
- Removal of the massage step after the injection – this has been found to reduce the risk of irritation at the injection site.
The three second EpiPen and EpiPen Jr adrenaline auto-injectors entered pharmacies in Australia and New Zealand in June 2017. However, many families are not aware of these changes.
St John Ambulance has issued a reminder for all Australians to remember the new guidelines on howe to use an EpiPen:
“All EpiPens should now be held in place for three seconds, regardless of the instructions on the label. However, if they are held for 10 seconds it will not affect the way that the adrenaline works.”
Even if you have the older 10 second label, you can still use it. There is no need to replace the auto-injector (unless it has expired of course). Aimply reduce the amount of time you use it for.
For the latest in allergy and anaphylaxis updates, have a look at the ASCIA website.
Be sure to also check out the latest update on peanut allergies and breastfeeding mums.
Image source: Facebook
