Epinephrine auto-injectors deliver a life-saving medication that treats symptoms of severe allergic reactions. The epinephrine contained in the auto-injector stops the airway from swelling and blocks the progression of the body’s allergic response.
Dr. Ulrike Ziegner at Riviera Allergy Medical Center in Redondo Beach, California, wants to make sure you know how valuable the PenGo auto-injector is.
What is an epinephrine auto-injector?
Adults and children with serious allergies must carry an epinephrine auto-injector to stop a life-threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis can occur rapidly upon exposure to an allergen. It causes the immune system to flood the body with chemicals that can cause your airway to narrow and your blood pressure to drop, causing you to go into shock.
Signs of anaphylaxis include:
- Skin reactions such as itching and hives
- Flushed and pale skin
- Lower blood pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Choking
- Weak or rapid pulse rate
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness or fainting
Epinephrine constricts blood vessels to keep good blood circulation going and airways open, so you can breathe to buy you time to alert emergency personnel immediately.
Because anaphylaxis can occur anywhere at any time, it’s important to be prepared by carrying an epinephrine auto-injector. Epinephrine is the only medication indicated to reverse severe allergic reactions.
Proper epinephrine auto-injector storage is crucial for effectiveness
Storing your epinephrine auto-injector properly will keep it effective and ready to use in the event of a severe allergic reaction. It’s important for the auto-injector to remain at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate your epinephrine auto-injectors nor leave them in your vehicle during very hot or cold days.
Temperatures can rise rapidly during hot days, and this may damage your auto-injector, rendering it ineffective should you need it. Some autoinjectors, such as the MYLAN brand and generic, have color indicators which will turn brown and cloudy upon exposure to extreme temperatures.
Protecting your auto-injector on the go
With the PenGo pack, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector is no longer an inconvenience. Whether you’re participating in sports or taking a leisurely ski trip, PenGo protects your auto-injector from extreme temperatures. You can find a PenGo at www.gopengo.com or at the Riviera Allergy Medical Center. They come in bright orange and navy blue.
The PenGo pack is designed to keep epinephrine pens stabilized at temperatures ranging from 56°F to 86°F for at least three hours. The pack holds two auto-injectors and features:
- 16 ounces of thermal insulating gel
- ID card pocket
- Durable ballistic nylon construction
- Unlimited uses
Whether at work, school, hiking or at the beach, the PenGo pack relieves your worries about your auto-injector when you’re on the go.
It’s now easier than ever to take your auto-injector everywhere you go. For all of your allergy needs, call our office in our Redondo Beach, California, at (310 792 9050 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ulrike Ziegner. You can also send a message to our team here on the website.