Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Are The Side Effects Of Epipen For Anaphylaxis?
Question: I suffer from anaphylaxis. at work the first aiders have been shown how to use my epipen, they have asked me to find out wheather I could come to any harm if they used it by mistake for example if I were to collapse for any other reason for example if I had a stroke?
Brief Answer:
No, you will not come to serious harm.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you got using Healthcare Magic.
If you inadvertently receive an epipen injection by mistake then you are likely to experience some side effects but they will not be life-threatening. You may have an increase in your heart rate and blood pressure. There may be sweating, nausea and vomiting. You may feel dizzy or have a headache. These side effects will settle after 1 to 2 hours. However, I would suggest that you go to the ED to have a full assessment.
I hope this has been of help. If you would like me to answer any further questions please do not hesitate to contact me.
No, you will not come to serious harm.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you got using Healthcare Magic.
If you inadvertently receive an epipen injection by mistake then you are likely to experience some side effects but they will not be life-threatening. You may have an increase in your heart rate and blood pressure. There may be sweating, nausea and vomiting. You may feel dizzy or have a headache. These side effects will settle after 1 to 2 hours. However, I would suggest that you go to the ED to have a full assessment.
I hope this has been of help. If you would like me to answer any further questions please do not hesitate to contact me.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I have been invited to go on a cruise. I am rather unsure about going as I have many allergies. I am very routine with what I eat to avoid any triggers. Also I have no idea about what medical facilities would be available, or, if I were to go, how would I know how many adrenalin pens to take with me?
Brief Answer:
Some suggestions for your trip.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for the further question. With adequate preparation, I consider you should be able to enjoy a problem-free cruise.
I suggest you contact the cruise company and ask for information regarding medical facilities including the presence of a cruise doctor. You should inform the company of your allergies. Cruise companies are usually experienced in dealing with the medical issues of their clients and have satisfactory facilities. It would be advisable to inform the ship's chef of your allergies and the foods you wish to avoid. There should be choices in the menu to cater for the allergies of clients. Take written information detailing your allergies and keep this with you at all times. You may wish to consider wearing a allergy bracelet or necklace as well. Regarding the number of epipens to take, this partly depends on how frequently you use them. If you have never used one before then I suggest you take three but this is just a reasonable guess. I would expect the ship's medical supplies to have these pens in the first aid equipment. Cruise staff as usually well trained in dealing with emergencies such as an allergic event.
If you consider these suggestions, I am confident they will help you enjoy you cruise.
I hope this is of help. I am happy to answer any further questions or clarify any points I have made if anything is unclear.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger
Some suggestions for your trip.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for the further question. With adequate preparation, I consider you should be able to enjoy a problem-free cruise.
I suggest you contact the cruise company and ask for information regarding medical facilities including the presence of a cruise doctor. You should inform the company of your allergies. Cruise companies are usually experienced in dealing with the medical issues of their clients and have satisfactory facilities. It would be advisable to inform the ship's chef of your allergies and the foods you wish to avoid. There should be choices in the menu to cater for the allergies of clients. Take written information detailing your allergies and keep this with you at all times. You may wish to consider wearing a allergy bracelet or necklace as well. Regarding the number of epipens to take, this partly depends on how frequently you use them. If you have never used one before then I suggest you take three but this is just a reasonable guess. I would expect the ship's medical supplies to have these pens in the first aid equipment. Cruise staff as usually well trained in dealing with emergencies such as an allergic event.
If you consider these suggestions, I am confident they will help you enjoy you cruise.
I hope this is of help. I am happy to answer any further questions or clarify any points I have made if anything is unclear.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Dr. Kerry Pottinger
Pain Medicine & Palliative Care Specialist
Practicing since :1983
Answered : 1337 Questions
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
