USING YOUR ADRENALINE (EPINEPHRINE) DEVICE
Listen Now
Top Tips
- Practice using your adrenaline device by using the trainer version regularly.
- Your ASCIA Action Plan will show you when and how to use your adrenaline device.
- If you are having an allergic reaction – DO NOT stand or walk.
- If you have ANY of the signs of anaphylaxis – use your adrenaline device.
- If in doubt – use your adrenaline device.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT A PERSON HAVING AN ALLERGIC REACTION DOES NOT STAND OR WALK
Anaphylaxis is potentially life threatening, so placing the person in the correct position and along with giving adrenaline, without delay, can save the person’s life.
Laying the person flat will help blood flow to the heart which improves blood pressure.
Standing can make anaphylaxis worse by causing blood pressure to drop.
This short video explains how to position someone having an anaphylaxis.
ADRENALINE DEVICES AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA
There are different adrenaline devices available in Australia. All adrenaline devices contain a single fixed dose of adrenaline, even though they may be administered differently.
EpiPen® is an adrenaline injector and is available in two doses – 150 microgram (for people 7.5kg to 20kg) and 300 microgram (for people over 20kg).
Anapen® is an adrenaline injector and is available in one dose – 500 microgram (for people over 50kg). Anapen® is currently out of stock in Australia.
neffy® is an adrenaline nasal spray device and is available in two doses – 1 milligram (for people up to 15-30kg) and 2 milligram (for people over 30kg). neffy® adrenaline nasal spray devices are registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia and expected to be available early in 2026. neffy® is not currently available to purchase from pharmacies over the counter and is not yet available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Further information is available from the ASCIA website.
Jext® is an adrenaline injector and is available in 300 microgram and Jext® Jnr is available in 150 microgram. Jext® adrenaline injector devices are registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia. Further information is available from the ASCIA website.
Older teens and young adults should speak with their doctor about what device and dose is most suitable for them.
These illustrations and short animations show how to give each adrenaline device.
How to give an EpiPen®
How to give an Anapen®
How to give neffy®
How to give Jext®
Visit the ASCIA website to learn more about how to give adrenaline (epinephrine) devices.
WHEN TO USE AN ADRENALINE DEVICE
Knowing how and when to use the adrenaline device is something many people struggle with.
If you are experiencing one or more of the following signs of anaphylaxis – use your adrenaline device.
- Difficult/noisy breathing
- Swelling of tongue
- Swelling/tightness in throat
- Difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice
- Wheeze or persistent cough
- Persistent dizziness or collapse
- Abdominal pain, vomiting after an insect bite or sting
- Pale and floppy (young children)
Using an adrenaline device is the best treatment for anaphylaxis.
Used your adrenaline device — what’s next?
LIE STILL. DON’T WALK OR STAND.
IF YOU’RE FINDING IT HARD TO BREATHE, SIT ON THE FLOOR WITH YOUR LEGS OUT IN FRONT OF YOU.
Call an ambulance (dial 000). Tell them you’re having an anaphylaxis and have been given the adrenaline device.
Get someone to write the time that the adrenaline device was administered, and hand the used devices to the paramedics.
Remember, a second adrenaline device can be given (if you have one) after 5 minutes if you still feel faint or have difficulty breathing.
GO TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE
Don’t walk to the ambulance — ask for a stretcher.
STAY UNDER OBSERVATION FOR AT LEAST 4 HOURS.
Some people feel better but suddenly become unwell again. This is called a ‘biphasic reaction’
Before leaving hospital, get a prescription for a new adrenaline device and stay with family or friends for the next day or two. Make sure you fill the prescription as soon as possible so you have an adrenaline device on hand.
Once recovered, go and see your clinical immunology/allergy specialist to discuss the cause of your reaction and how you managed the emergency.
Carrying your adrenaline device
Handbags, man bags, school bags or small backpacks are great ways to carry your adrenaline device and ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis yourself.
Or you can buy a waist belt for under your shirt, or a leg holster for around your ankle.
Some ideas include:
It is important that your adrenaline device is not left in the car or in direct sunlight as this affects the adrenaline. It also shouldn’t be stored in the fridge or directly against a freezer block as this can affect the device mechanism.
Need Help?
If you need help, contact Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia.
Further information:
ASCIA How to give adrenaline devices
ASCIA Adrenaline Device Frequently asked questions