Adrenaline Devices

Find out more about anaphylaxis

Adrenaline is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, a serious allergic reaction that can develop quickly. Having the right information and medication is an important part of managing a serious allergy and helping you feel confident in everyday life.

Types of adrenaline devices

Adrenaline is available in different forms designed to be given quickly and easily in an emergency. If you have been prescribed adrenaline, it is important to know when and how to use your device. A healthcare professional can show you how to use your specific device, and manufacturers also provide training resources and practice devices.

Options currently available on prescription in the UK include:

Adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs), such as EpiPen® and Jext®.
Intranasal adrenaline, such as EURneffy®, a needle-free nasal spray.

If you have been prescribed adrenaline, you should carry two in-date devices with you at all times. A second dose may be needed if your symptoms do not improve after five minutes or if they get worse.

Factsheet: Adrenaline Devices

How to use your adrenaline device

Knowing how to use your prescribed adrenaline device correctly can help you feel more prepared in an emergency.

A healthcare professional can show you how to use your device. You can ask your doctor, practice nurse, pharmacist or school nurse for help with this.

The manufacturers of EpiPen®, Jext® and EURneffy® also provide free trainer devices, allowing you to practise using your device without giving yourself a dose of adrenaline:

Adrenaline doses for children

Children prescribed a 150 microgram (0.15 mg) adrenaline auto-injector should move to the 300 microgram (0.3 mg) dose when they reach a weight of 25 kg or more. This is often between 5 and 10 years of age, depending on the child’s growth.

If you are unsure whether your child’s adrenaline dose is still appropriate, speak to their healthcare professional.

Check your adrenaline regularly

Adrenaline can degrade over time and may be less effective after its expiry date. Check the expiry date on your devices regularly and make sure they are replaced before they expire.

If you use an adrenaline auto-injector such as EpiPen® or Jext®, check it regularly to make sure the liquid is clear and colourless. If the liquid appears discoloured or contains particles, the device should be replaced.

If a newly supplied adrenaline device appears defective or damaged, return it promptly and report the issue through the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

Sign up for expiry alerts

Some manufacturers offer an expiry alert service to remind you when your adrenaline device is due to expire. Check the service available for your prescribed device:

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