Epinephrine Pen (EpiPen)

Epinephrine injections are used to treat life-threatening allergic reactions caused by insect bites, latex and other causes. Symptoms of allergic reaction include wheezing, shortness of breath, low blood pressure, hives, itching, swelling, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and loss of bladder control. Epinephrine is in a class of medications called sympathomimetic agents. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and tightening the blood vessels.

Iowa State University employees who, as part of their daily work activities, are exposed to bee venom or other workplace hazards that may result in an allergic reaction could potentially be at risk and should carry, or have available at a moment’s notice, an epinephrine dispensing pen (EpiPen).

Publications and Forms

• Epinephrine Pen Acquisition and Use Fact Sheet (PDF)

• ISU Occupational Medicine Hazard Inventory form 

• ISU Occupational Medicine Guidelines

Links

• National Institutes of Health Epinephrine Injection