Adrenaline occurs naturally in the body. Adrenaline injected into the muscle of the upper outer thigh is the first choice drug for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis because it works quickly to reverse the symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction.
Adrenaline acts to raise low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness and loss of consciousness in anaphylaxis. It also relaxes smooth muscle in the lungs to improve breathing and reduces swelling around the face and lips.
1. Grasp the injector in your dominant hand (the one you use to write with) with your thumb closest to the yellow cap.
2. Pull off the yellow cap with your other hand.
3. Place the black injector tip against your outer thigh, holding the injector at a right angle (approx 90°) to the thigh.
4. Push the black tip firmly into your outer thigh until you hear a ‘click’ confirming the injection has started, then keep it pushed in. Hold the injector firmly in place against the thigh for 10 seconds (a slow count to 10) then remove. The black tip will extend automatically and hide the needle.
5. Massage the injection area for 10 seconds. Seek immediate medical help.
6. Call 999, ask for an ambulance and say "anaphylaxis". If you are unable to make the call, get someone else to call for you.
7. BE PREPARED: Use a second one after 5-15 minutes if the symptoms do not improve.
