How to use an Epipen and Jext pen

Learning how to use an Epipen or Jext adrenaline injector can seem very daunting but is actually very easy and is an invaluable skill that could save someone’s life.

They both work in a very similar way and are preloaded with a dose of adrenaline to treat an anaphylactic reaction. They have a sprung needle that activates when you push the injector into the side of the thigh.

You can get trainer pens from the Epipen or Jext manufacturers’ websites. It is also a good idea to practise with an expired autoinjector by injecting it in an orange or lemon, which have a similar texture to a human thigh.

Make sure that your friends and family know how to use an Epipen or Jext, and any teachers or caregivers are also fully trained. It is a good idea to show your child how to use them too. It gives them some control, takes away a lot of the fear, and they think it’s a fun activity!

How to use an Epipen

1. Lie the person down, Do not make them walk as this can make an allergic reaction worse.
2. If they are having trouble breathing, raise their head and shoulders
3. Remove the blue cap and grip the Epipen around the middle
4. Swing it into the side of the thigh until you hear a click
5. Hold it for 3 seconds
6. Call an ambulance
7. If the person is not improving, administer 2nd Epipen after 5 minutes in the other thigh

How to use a Jext Pen

1. Lie the person down, Do not make them walk as this can make an allergic reaction worse.
2. If they are having trouble breathing, raise their head and shoulders
3. Remove the yellow cap and grip the Jext pen around the middle
4. Place it on the side of the thigh and push hard until you hear a click
5. Hold it for 10 seconds
6. Call an ambulance
7. If the person is not improving, administer 2nd Jext pen after 5 minutes in the other thigh

Do you use an Epipen through clothes?

Yes, you use an Epipen through clothes. There is no need to remove any clothing, even jeans, although it is best to avoid the seam if possible. The same is true for using a Jext pen.

Do you have to go to hospital after using an Epipen?

Yes, you need to go to hospital after using an Epipen or Jext pen. This is because the adrenaline relieves and anaphylactic reaction, but symptoms may reoccur so it is important to be monitored in case you need further treatment.

What happens if you use an Epipen but don’t need it?

If you use an Epipen but don’t need it, there are usually no negative side effects. It can make your heart beat faster and may leave you feeling shakey. However, the effects of not using it can be severe, so if you are in doubt, always use it.

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