If you struggle with severe allergies, you know just how vital your EpiPen is .
To ensure it is effective in all situations, you must care for and store it properly. The active ingredient in EpiPen, epinephrine , is very sensitive to temperature and light exposure , requiring special storage conditions to ensure the potency and safety of your EpiPen.
In this article, we've summarized everything you need to know about storing an EpiPen properly - from the manufacturer's storage instructions to tips from everyday users that you can benefit from.
Related article: EpiPen bags: how to keep your EpiPens cool and safe on the go
EpiPen storage: How important is light and temperature protection
The manufacturer Meridian Medical Technologies states that the EpiPens must be stored in a cool and dark place to ensure optimal effectiveness until the official expiration date.
The EpiPen should always be stored in its original carrier case between 15°C and 25°C - whether it is the large emergency syringe with 0.3 mg for adults or the EpiPen Jr injection with 0.15 mg for children.
Temperature fluctuations within the permitted range of 15°C to a maximum of 30°C are permitted, but should be avoided if possible. Under no circumstances should these temperatures be exceeded or the EpiPen exposed to extreme cold, even for a short moment.
You must also protect the EpiPen from direct sunlight or artificial light , as light will damage the active ingredient epinephrine in the EpiPen.
Related article : Travel Guide for EpiPen Users: Safety Tips and Storage Solutions Before You Go
EpiPen storage at home
It may seem easier to store your EpiPen correctly at home, but that's why you need to be careful not to become careless. A medicine cabinet in an air-conditioned room , away from heat sources such as windows, heaters or kitchen appliances, is ideal. The bathroom should definitely be avoided because humidity is particularly high there.
Always make sure you have a storage strategy for all situations . Whether at work, at school, or out with friends - those around you should always know where your EpiPen is kept and be informed about the importance of proper storage and use.
The EpiPen should always be kept in an easily accessible place so that it can be used quickly in an emergency. If you are traveling in pairs or in a larger group, make sure that someone always knows where the EpiPen is.
EpiPen shelf life
The EpiPen will usually last until the expiration date printed on the pen , but only if it has been stored correctly.
You should never use an EpiPen that has already expired , as the effectiveness of the active ingredient, epinephrine, may be reduced. In an emergency situation, this could significantly impair the treatment of a severe allergy.
If the EpiPen has been accidentally exposed to extreme heat, cold or light , it is recommended that you see a doctor or pharmacist to check that the EpiPen is still good. If you do not have access to a healthcare provider, it is always safer to have a new and effective EpiPen with you to be prepared for emergencies.
Do you need to refrigerate the EpiPen?
The EpiPen does not need to be refrigerated . In fact, the opposite is true. The EpiPen should never be stored in the refrigerator . The manufacturer's instructions clearly state that epinephrine does not belong in the refrigerator.
Cooling can cause the epinephrine solution to crystallize . This means that the chemical structure of the active ingredient epinephrine is changed and its effectiveness is lost.
In addition, crystallization can block the auto-injector mechanism , rendering the EpiPen useless.
Can you freeze an EpiPen?
An EpiPen should never be frozen . Freezing will severely impair its effectiveness and reliability.
If refrigerating an EpiPen damages the chemical structure of epinephrine , freezing it is even more damaging. In addition, the active ingredient may no longer be evenly distributed when thawed, which can lead to insufficient dosing .
Freezing also damages the EpiPen's injection mechanism . Important components of the auto-injector, such as the needle and spring mechanism, could break and become unusable in an emergency.
Therefore, it is important never to expose the EpiPen to freezing temperatures . It is especially important to be careful when storing it in a car or outside in cold temperatures, as well as near ice packs and freezers.
If it 's cold outside and you're out and about, keep the EpiPen close to your body or use an insulated bag .
EpiPen storage in summer or hot weather
The hardest part is storing the EpiPen when it 's hot outside in the summer .
The most important rule is that the EpiPen should never be exposed to temperatures above 30°C , even for a short time. In general, temperature fluctuations should be avoided if possible, but as long as they are rare and stay between 15°C and 30°C , it should not cause any great harm to the EpiPen.
Here are some simple tips for you if you live in warm places or are on vacation to keep your EpiPen optimally protected from the heat:
- Avoid cars : Never leave your EpiPen unprotected in a car . Cars heat up extremely quickly, even when the outside temperature is not that high. Therefore, the EpiPen should always be stored in an insulated, medical-grade cooler bag to protect it from heat and light.
- EpiPen Cooler Bag : Invest in a medically approved, thermally insulated bag designed specifically for medications. These bags and coolers help maintain a stable room temperature below 25°C and protect the EpiPen from heat.
- Shade : As much as possible, keep your EpiPen in the shade to avoid unnecessary heat exposure. Even if it is in a bag, the bag should be kept cool so that it can keep the emergency syringe cool for longer.
- Storage temperature : Monitor the storage temperature. You should regularly check the storage conditions of your EpiPen, especially in summer. Check that the solution in the EpiPen (visible through the viewing window) remains clear and colorless. Discoloration or cloudiness may indicate that the epinephrine has been damaged by heat.
- Be careful with ice packs: Transporting EpiPens in homemade ice packs with ice packs is not recommended. The temperature fluctuates too much and direct contact with the ice could freeze the epinephrine.
- Store indoors : Choose indoor storage locations carefully. Indoors, choose cool, dry locations away from windows, doors, and appliances such as ovens or refrigerators that generate heat. Make sure the room you store your EpiPen in stays below 25°C.
The importance of correct EpiPen storage for effectiveness and safety
Proper storage of the EpiPen is not just a recommendation for storing your medication, but can be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.
We have put together some more tips for you to make storing your EpiPen as easy as possible.
Always at hand!
This is the most important thing to remember when it comes to storing your emergency allergy shot. In case of anaphylactic shock, you don't have time to search the whole house for your EpiPen .
- At home: Designate a permanent place for your EpiPen that all family members know. Avoid moving it unnecessarily.
- At work : Keep a spare EpiPen at your workplace. Inform trusted colleagues where it is kept and give them instructions on how to use it in an emergency.
- When traveling : Always carry your EpiPen in your carry-on bag or in a personal item. Make sure it is easily accessible and not buried under other items.
- At social gatherings : Always carry your EpiPen in a pocket or small pouch. Inform a companion where it is kept and how to use it.
EpiPen storage: further tips and advice
Aside from proper storage, there are other things to keep in mind when using an EpiPen. Here are some tips to ensure efficiency, safety, and preparation when you need it most:
- EpiPen Shelf Life : Check the expiration date monthly and inspect the solution through the viewing window. If it is discolored or contains particles, replace the EpiPen immediately. These signs indicate that the epinephrine may have expired or spoiled prematurely. You can sign up for the free EpiPen Shelf Life Alert.
- Train those around you : Make sure you and others who could help you in an emergency - such as family, friends or colleagues - are trained to use the EpiPen. If you have a severe allergic reaction, you may not be able to act on your own. Many local health authorities and pharmacies offer training.
- Store EpiPens in multiple locations . If you regularly travel between different locations (for example, between home, work, or a relative's house), keep a separate EpiPen at each location to minimize the risk of accidentally forgetting it.
- Replacement: It is always good to carry a spare EpiPen with you in case one becomes unusable.
- Wear a medical identifier . Wear a bracelet or card that indicates your allergy and where you keep your EpiPen. This can be crucial to informing bystanders or medical personnel if you are unable to communicate during an allergic reaction.
- Last but not least , it is very important to discuss your EpiPen storage practices and emergency plan with your doctor or pharmacist. They can give you personalized advice that fits your lifestyle and daily routines, improving your safety and well-being.
We are happy to hear from them!
Do you have any tips or experiences on EpiPen storage and handling that you would like to share? Perhaps a personal story about how being prepared with an EpiPen made all the difference in an emergency situation? Feel free to share your thoughts and insights in the comments section below. Your contribution could help others improve their allergy management. Let's learn from each other and strengthen our preparedness together!
