N
The Daily Insight

Who needs to carry an epinephrine autoinjector?

Author

Isabella Ramos

Updated on March 02, 2026

Patients who have had anaphylaxis or who are at risk of it (eg, due to food allergy or Hymenoptera hypersensitivity) should carry an epinephrine autoinjector at all times.

Why do you need to carry 2 EpiPens?

It is important to ensure access to more than 1 device across all locations. Unfortunately with rising prices of epinephrine auto injectors, shortages, lack of insurance coverage, may make it difficult for patients to have two epinephrine auto injectors available at all locations.

How many EpiPens should you carry?

In summary: People who have been prescribed an Adrenaline Auto-Injector (AAI) because of the risk of anaphylaxis should carry two with them at all times for emergency on the spot use.

Can you carry an EpiPen in school?

Currently, 12 states have requirements for schools to have EpiPens, and many states allow schools to keep them on hand, which leaves it up to each school to make a decision on this. In 2013, a federal law, the School Access to Emergency Epinehphrine Act, was signed into law.

Can you use the same EpiPen twice?

How many doses can be given? A. During an anaphylactic reaction, EpiPen® should be given immediately and an ambulance called, if there is no improvement in symptoms in 5 minutes, a second EpiPen® should be given. Any more than 2 doses of adrenaline should only be administered under direct medical supervision.

Why do you call 911 after using an EpiPen?

Everyone who’s had an anaphylactic reaction needs to be examined and monitored in an emergency room. This is because anaphylaxis isn’t always a single reaction. The symptoms can rebound, returning hours or even days after you get an epinephrine injection.

Can I carry my EpiPen on a plane?

According to the TSA, passengers are allowed to bring their epinephrine on board a flight. However, you may need to show the printed label that identifies the medication (e.g., Adrenaclick®, Auvi-Q™, EpiPen®). You should also be prepared to show the prescription label from the pharmacy.

Do asthmatics need an EpiPen?

EpiPens contain an injectable dose of epinephrine. This is the only medicine that can reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis. If you have allergies or asthma and have a family history of anaphylaxis, your risk is higher, says the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Is it illegal to have an EpiPen?

Epinephrine can be either in autoinjector form or drawn up in a syringe. Individuals are allowed to get a prescription and purchase epinephrine to carry for emergency administration to other people.

Should you carry an EpiPen in a bag?

If you carry an auto-injector for epinephrine (such as an EpiPen) due to severe allergies, you need a way to keep it with you, safely and securely at all times. You’re probably familiar with this dilemma: Should you put it in a bag (meaning you need to carry the bag everywhere you go, with no exceptions)?

When to use an EpiPen or EpiPen Jr auto-injector?

1 EpiPen and EpiPen Jr Auto-Injectors. contain epinephrine, a medicine used to… 2 Always carry your EpiPen or EpiPen. Jr Auto-Injector with you because you… 3 When you have an allergic. emergency (anaphylaxis) use the EpiPen.

What is the USP for EpiPen?

EpiPen ® (epinephrine injection, USP) 0.3 mg or EpiPen Jr (epinephrine injection, USP) 0.15 mg Auto-Injectors are for the emergency treatment of life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) caused by allergens, exercise, or unknown triggers; and for people who are at increased risk for these reactions.

What should I do if my EpiPen needle is visible?

If the needle is still visible, do not attempt to reuse it. Massage the injection area for 10 seconds. You may need further medical attention. If symptoms continue or recur, you may need to use a second EpiPen ® or EpiPen Jr Auto-Injector.