what is an epipen

An EpiPen is a brand name of an auto-injectable device that delivers the drug epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. It is a life-saving medication used when someone is experiencing a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. Epinephrine acts on the whole body to block the progression of the allergic response. It constricts the blood vessels, leading to increased blood pressure, and decreased swelling. This allows the muscles around the airways to relax, causing the lungs to open. Epinephrine also prevents the release of more allergic chemicals, which stops the progression of the allergic response. EpiPen is just one of the brand names of devices known generically as Epinephrine Auto-Injectors. EpiPen is available in two formats, EpiPen and EpiPen Jr, and both are single-use injectable devices that deliver a fixed dose of epinephrine. EpiPen should be used with caution in patients with high blood pressure and thyroid conditions, and in pregnancy. Blood sugar may increase in patients with diabetes and symptoms can temporarily get worse in patients with Parkinson’s disease.