Learn about anaphylaxis and epinephrine auto injectors

Learn about anaphylaxis and epinephrine auto injectors

The overwhelming majority of people with AGS need to carry epinephrine auto injectors (like EpiPens)

  • Up to 60% of patients with AGS have anaphylactic reactions (1-4).
  • Alpha-gal allergy reactions are highly variable. This variability is a hallmark of AGS.
  • Cofactors profoundly influence alpha-gal allergy reactions (see above).
  • New tick bites can make you more reactive, and about half the time, people don’t notice that they were bitten by a tick.
  • For all these reasons, even if you have had mild reactions in the past, you could have a more serious one in the future.

Epinephrine Auto injectors


There are different types of epinephrine autoinjectors. Generic epinephrine auto injectors are substantially cheaper than EpiPens.


One popular brand of epinephrine autoinjector is Auvi-Q. If you qualify, you can get up to 2 free Auvi-Q dual packs (that’s four autoinjectors in total) a year, delivered to your house. Your doctor will need to call in the prescription. For details, see this website.


Your doctor should show you how to use your epinephrine autoinjectors when they give you your prescription.


As soon as you get your prescription, take it to your pharmacy to be filled. There is often a shortage of epinephrine autoinjectors. It may take time for your pharmacy to fill your prescription.


As soon as you have your epinephrine auto injectors, review how to use them. Don’t wait until you have a reaction.


This video shows how to use different brands of epinephrine autoinjectors.


Keep your epinephrine auto injectors with you at all times.


Can’t afford an epinephrine auto injector? Get help here.


Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plans


Your doctor should also create a Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan for you that includes instructions on when to use your autoinjectors and explain it. Share the plan with your family and keep it with you.


This is important. Ask for the care plan. If your doctor didn’t give you one at your appointment, contact them and ask for one.


Educate yourself about anaphylaxis


 

 

  • This video presentation about anaphylaxis and the use of epinephrine auto injectors, featuring prominent allergist Jonathan Spergel, is packed full of information. Everyone who has anaphylactic reactions should watch it. You will feel well-informed and more confident about taking control of your reactions if you do. Click here.  

 


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