Some folks experience severe reactions to certain foods, medications, bee stings, or irritating substances. For these people, an immediate injection of epinephrine can be a life saver. Epi-pen is a self-dosing syringe that they always keep within reach. Mylan Corporation recently recalled some shipments of potentially defective syringes. Although the misfire risk is low, they may not administer the dose like they should.
Signs and symptoms: Allergic reactions normally involve itching, rash, or sometimes whelps on the skin. Severe reactions progress to dramatic swelling of face or affected areas. Throat and lung constriction can lead to swallowing difficulties or respiratory failure.
What to do: If you depend on Epi-Pen for protection from severe allergies, check the lot number on your kit. Then go to www.FDA.gov. and search for Epi-Pen. They have a list of lot numbers that could be affected. If necessary, contact your pharmacy or call Mylan at 1-800-796-9526 for a free replacement.
Thought for the day: Most will work, but if there’s a doubt, don’t until it’s too late to find out.
What’s Going Around is contributed by family practice doctor Kyle Scarborough, M.D. You can reach him at drscarborough@familylifemedical.com.
