How to use an adrenaline autoinjector
If you think you or someone you know is experiencing anaphylaxis, use the adrenaline autoinjector immediately. Then call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Follow an ASCIA allergy action plan, if you have one.
Key facts
- An adrenaline autoinjector can save the life of someone who is having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
- They inject a single, fixed dose of adrenaline to treat anaphylaxis.
- Anyone, including people who are not medically trained, can use an adrenaline autoinjector.
- The two brands of adrenaline autoinjector available in Australia are EpiPen™ and Anapen™.
- If you have an allergy, always carry your adrenaline autoinjector and allergy action plan.
What is an adrenaline autoinjector?
An adrenaline autoinjector treats severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in an emergency. It injects a single, fixed dose of adrenaline. Adrenaline helps reverse the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.
It can be given by anyone, including people who are not medically trained.
When should I use an adrenaline autoinjector?
Use an adrenaline autoinjector immediately if you suspect someone is having a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms may include:
- difficulty or noisy breathing
- swelling of the tongue
- swelling or tightness in the throat
- difficulty talking or a hoarse voice
- wheezing or a persistent cough
- persistent dizziness or collapse
- pale and floppy (in young children)
Common triggers for a severe allergic reaction include:
- foods such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, seafood, wheat and soy
- insect bites and stings
- medicines
If you're unsure whether it's a severe allergic reaction, use the adrenaline autoinjector. It's better to use it than to delay treatment for a serious reaction. Adrenaline doesn't have serious side effects if given unnecessarily, but it can save a life.
If you aren't sure whether it's an asthma attack or anaphylaxis, use the adrenaline autoinjector first. Then follow with asthma reliever medicine. Call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Continue first aid for both asthma and anaphylaxis until the ambulance arrives.
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.
What brands of adrenaline autoinjector are available in Australia?
There are two different brands of adrenaline autoinjector available in Australia.
- EpiPen™
- Anapen™
Each brand has an autoinjector for adults and one for children who weigh between 7.5kg and 20kg. The children's version contains a lower dose of adrenaline. Anapen™ also makes a larger dose version that can be used by children or adults who weigh over 50kg.
How do I use an EpiPen™ adrenaline autoinjector?
If you can, use the EpiPen yourself. If someone who knows how to self-administer is too unwell, they will need help from another person.
- Remove the autoinjector from the carry tube. Keep your fingers and thumb away from the orange tip.
- With the orange tip facing down, hold the autoinjector firmly in your fist and pull off the blue safety release.
- Hold the leg still and place the orange end against the outer mid-thigh at a right angle (90°).
- You can give the injection through clothing but avoid pockets or seams.
- Push down firmly until you hear or feel a 'click' and hold for 3 seconds.
- Remove the adrenaline autoinjector.
- Record the time the injection was given.
- Call an ambulance and continue to follow anaphylaxis first aid
Additional adrenaline doses may be given if there is no response 5 minutes after giving the first dose. Record the times they were given.
You should lay flat after receiving the injection. If breathing is difficult, you can sit on the ground with your legs outstretched. If the person is vomiting or pregnant, position them on their side in the recovery position.
Watch this video from Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia for a demonstration on how to use the EpiPen™ and EpiPen Jr™.
Video not working? View it here.
How do I use an Anapen™ adrenaline autoinjector?
If you can, use the Anapen™ yourself. If someone who knows how to self-administer is too unwell, they will need help from another person.
- Remove the black needle shield by pulling hard.
- Remove the grey safety cap from the red button.
- Hold the open end (needle end) against the outer part of your thigh at a right angle (90°).
- You can give the injection through clothing but avoid pockets or seams.
- Press the red button so that it clicks and hold for 3 seconds
- Slowly remove the adrenaline autoinjector.
- Record the time the injection was given.
- Call an ambulance and continue to follow anaphylaxis first aid
Additional adrenaline doses may be given if there is no response 5 minutes after giving the first dose. Record the times they were given.
You should lay flat after receiving the injection. If breathing is difficult, you can sit on the ground with your legs outstretched. If the person is vomiting or pregnant, position them on their side in the recovery position.
Watch this video from Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia for a demonstration on how to use the Anapen™ autoinjector.
Video not working? View it here.
When should I see my doctor?
If you think you or someone you know is experiencing anaphylaxis, use the adrenaline autoinjector immediately. Then call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Follow an ASCIA allergy action plan, if you have one.
If you may be at risk of anaphylaxis, discuss with your doctor whether you should carry an adrenaline autoinjector.
It is also important to have an allergy action plan. Speak with your doctor to set one up.
What is an allergy action plan?
An allergy action plan is a one-page document with clear steps for treating allergic reactions in an emergency. Your allergy action plan is filled out and signed by a health professional, such as a doctor or nurse.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.
How can I get an adrenaline autoinjector?
Adrenaline autoinjectors are available with a doctor's prescription on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). They are available for people diagnosed as being at high risk of anaphylaxis.
How do I store my adrenaline autoinjector?
Adrenaline autoinjectors last 1 to 2 years and must be stored at room temperature. Check your device regularly and remember to replace it before the expiry date. Do not use it if the adrenaline looks cloudy.
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Resources and support
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) provides:
- step by step instructions for giving EpiPen™
- step by step instructions for giving Anapen™
- information about allergy action plans
Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia offers information and support for people at risk of anaphylaxis and their families.
Healthdirect offers consumer medicine information leaflets about different types of adrenaline autoinjectors:
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Do you prefer to read in languages other than English?
Step by step instructions for giving EpiPen™ are available in several languages other than English.
Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.
Last reviewed: November 2024
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