Jan. 15, 2019—For Americans with severe allergies, an EpiPen can be a life-saving device. EpiPens contain a single injectable dose of epinephrine. Given in an emergency, this drug helps prevent the potentially lethal side effects of an allergic reaction.
A new study has found that high temperatures can decrease the EpiPens' effectiveness. This is important information for users who carry one with them at all times.
Keeping EpiPens cool
EpiPens should stay around 68 to 77 degrees most of the time. So never leave them in the car in the summer, when temperatures inside cars skyrocket. But vehicles get warm in the winter too—think of blasting the heater to keep out the chill. So be aware of where you keep your pen, don't leave it in the car, and keep it out of the path of heat or direct sunlight.
The study was published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice.
Sources: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology