Tempramed Blog
How to Store your EpiPen® Properly
When it comes to severe allergic reactions, time is of the essence. Epinephrine is considered the lifesaving first line of treatment for anaphylaxis and can be administered quickly. But having this emergency medication on hand isn’t the only challenge. The temperature of the Epinephrine auto-injector (EAI), or brand name EpiPen®, is a crucial factor in its effectiveness.
Epinephrine is vital for the body's fight-or-flight response during severe allergic reactions. However, the medication can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, light, and moisture, which can degrade its effectiveness. To ensure the potency of epinephrine in an EpiPen, here are some things you need to know:
What temperature should an EpiPen be stored at?
The ideal EpiPen temperature range lies between 59 - 86°F (15 - 30°C) or around room temperature. Because epinephrine is a biologically derived medication, it is sensitive to light and extreme temperatures. The chemical structure can be damaged by sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. If exposed to these conditions, epinephrine can become less effective and could have degraded, making the epinephrine completely unreliable. A safe EpiPen temperature can preserve epinephrine potency and keep it safe and reliable.
Tips for keeping EpiPen temperature range safe
There are several tips to follow when storing an EpiPen to ensure the temperature range is safe. Firstly, never leave the medication in a car or checked luggage, as the temperature and light conditions vary greatly. Additionally, never store an EpiPen in a refrigerator or freezer or with ice packs. If an EpiPen is exposed to temperatures outside the safe range, it should be replaced immediately.
It is best to store an EpiPen in a medicine cabinet at room temperature when at home. When on the go, carry your EpiPen in an insulated pouch or container close to you, such as in a bag or purse. It is also recommended to have a second EpiPen on hand for emergencies.
If you need clarification about the condition of your EpiPen, it is best to call a healthcare provider or physician for advice. They can determine if the medication has been damaged, such as by discoloration of the liquid inside the EpiPen, and advise on whether it should be discarded.
The Best EpiPen temperature control device
For added peace of mind, the VIVI Epi is a high-performance EpiPen temperature control device that wraps around an EpiPen to protect it from light and extreme temperatures 24/7. The device uses patented, space-grade technology to maintain the EpiPen temperature range at 59 - 86 degrees Fahrenheit, regardless of external conditions. The VIVI Epi does not require charging, cooling packs, ice, or refrigeration and has been clinically validated through scientific trials. It is the only epinephrine protection of its kind using space grade technology to maintain the appropriate temperatures at all times regardless of the external climate.
VIVI Epi allows people with allergies to feel at ease knowing that their EpiPen is always available and safe when needed.