EpiPen
EpiPen is a pre-filled, disposable auto-injector containing epinephrine. Epinephrine is a sympathomimetic catecholamine that rapidly acts to constrict blood vessels, relax bronchial muscles, reduce swelling, and stimulate the heart, reversing the life-threatening symptoms of anaphylaxis.
Dosage by Body Weight
Inject intramuscularly into the outer thigh at the first sign of a severe allergic reaction. Seek immediate emergency medical attention after administration. The standard dose is 0.3 mg for individuals weighing 30 kg (approx. 66 lbs) or more, and 0.15 mg (EpiPen Jr) for individuals weighing 15 kg to 30 kg (33 to 66 lbs).
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 0.01 mg/kg (not routine via auto-injector)
- Frequency
- Single emergency dose; seek immediate medical care
- Tracking Notes
- EpiPen auto-injectors are not designed for patients under 15 kg. Precise manual dosing using a syringe is highly recommended for infants.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 0.01 mg/kg or 0.1 mg if prescribed
- Frequency
- Single emergency dose
- Tracking Notes
- Standard EpiPen Jr (0.15 mg) may provide an excessive dose. Consult a pediatrician; alternative brand Auvi-Q offers a 0.1 mg strength.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 0.1 mg to 0.15 mg
- Frequency
- Single emergency dose; may repeat once if symptoms persist and help is delayed
- Tracking Notes
- EpiPen Jr (0.15 mg) may be prescribed if benefit outweighs risk of dose excess. Administer strictly under physician guidance.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 0.15 mg (EpiPen Jr)
- Frequency
- Single emergency dose; may repeat once after 5-15 minutes if necessary
- Tracking Notes
- Frequently prescribed as EpiPen Jr for children approaching 15 kg. Inject into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 0.15 mg (EpiPen Jr)
- Frequency
- Single emergency dose; may repeat once if anaphylaxis symptoms persist
- Tracking Notes
- Standard EpiPen Jr dose. Hold injector firmly against the outer thigh for 3 seconds to ensure complete drug delivery.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 0.01 mg/kg (not routine via auto-injector) | Single emergency dose; seek immediate medical care | EpiPen auto-injectors are not designed for patients under 15 kg. Precise manual dosing using a syringe is highly recommended for infants. |
| 5-7 kg | 0.01 mg/kg or 0.1 mg if prescribed | Single emergency dose | Standard EpiPen Jr (0.15 mg) may provide an excessive dose. Consult a pediatrician; alternative brand Auvi-Q offers a 0.1 mg strength. |
| 8-10 kg | 0.1 mg to 0.15 mg | Single emergency dose; may repeat once if symptoms persist and help is delayed | EpiPen Jr (0.15 mg) may be prescribed if benefit outweighs risk of dose excess. Administer strictly under physician guidance. |
| 11-15 kg | 0.15 mg (EpiPen Jr) | Single emergency dose; may repeat once after 5-15 minutes if necessary | Frequently prescribed as EpiPen Jr for children approaching 15 kg. Inject into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh. |
| 16-20 kg | 0.15 mg (EpiPen Jr) | Single emergency dose; may repeat once if anaphylaxis symptoms persist | Standard EpiPen Jr dose. Hold injector firmly against the outer thigh for 3 seconds to ensure complete drug delivery. |
Formulation
Purpose
Emergency treatment of severe, life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) caused by allergens, exercise, or unknown triggers.
Generic Name
EpinephrineScheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.