Epinephrine auto-injectors don’t have a long shelf life
It’s common for people with severefood allergiesto carry anEpiPen.
The injection immediately opens the airways and relieves potentially life-threatening symptoms of severe allergic reactions likeanaphylaxis.
EpiPens don’t last forever and need to be disposed of if used orexpired.
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If this happens, you’ve got the option to’t just toss them into the wastebasket.
The devices need to be disposed of properly to prevent harm to others.
This article explains why used EpiPens are considered hazardous waste and some of their disposal laws.
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It also explains how to dispose of an EpiPen, whether used or expired, safely.
Any medical devices that can puncture or cut the skin are known as “sharps.
The same precautions are needed at home with devices like EpiPens.
This helps ease breathing and counteracts potentially dangerous drops in blood pressure that can occur with anaphylaxis.
Medical waste is regulated in the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
By contrast, California law requires you to take all sharps containers to a designated disposal site.
Penalties of up to $70,000 may be applied if hazardous wastes are improperly and wantonly disposed of.
Your local sanitation department can also usually help.
If you have a sharps container, you’re able to place it there.
Some states allow you to transport used EpiPens in medical waste bags.
These puncture-resistant bags are usually color-coded red and clearly labeled with a biohazard symbol.
Some healthcare providers will offer these to patients who use EpiPens.
Your healthcare provider will also usually take back and dispose of expired auto-injectors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Epinephrine is a highly unstable drug.
It can easily lose its potency if left in an overheated car or exposed to extreme cold.
If it is cloudy, you need a new EpiPen.
By that time, the drug may be tainted or have expired.
Because epinephrine is so unstable, the expiration date is relatively shortusually one year from the date of manufacture.
Needlestick injuries can potentially expose people to bloodborne diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV.
If one is not available, a sturdy, puncture-resistant container will do.
Ensure that you always have an adequate stock of EpiPens on hand.
This means that you always need to carry an auto-injector with you, especially when you travel.
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Environmental Protection Agency.Medical waste.
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.Disposing of syringes from households: do’s and don’ts.
California Legislature.Chapter 9. containment and storage [118275 - 118320].
