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What is the difference between Symjepi and EpiPen?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Dec 12, 2024.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

EpiPen and Symjepi are both intramuscular or subcutaneous injections use to treat allergic emergencies (anaphylaxis), for example to bees stings or peanuts. Unlike EpiPen, Symjepi does not come as an "autoinjector" but comes only as a prefilled syringe. Symjepi has a smaller size and may be more user-friendly than other products.

Related: EpiPen and Symjepi Pricing Guide

Like EpiPen, Symjepi (epinephrine) is a single-dose, prefilled syringe of 0.3 mg epinephrine used for emergency treatment of Type 1 allergic reactions such as insect stings, food allergies (like nuts or shellfish), or medications, among other severe allergic reactions.

Symjepi and EpiPen injectors are both designed for injection through clothing, but the users of Symjepi should be in a seated position prior to injection in the outer thigh, while the EpiPen can be used while standing. Seek medical attention immediately after using Symjepi or EpiPen.

Symjepi, from Adamis, was FDA-approved in June 2017 and is sold in a 2-pack like EpiPen.

Other brands of epinephrine include Auvi-Q from Kaleo and Adrenaclick from Impax. Generic alternatives are also available on the U.S. market for emergency epinephrine delivery.

See also: Comparing EpiPen vs Symjepi

This is not all the information you need to know about Symjepi or EpiPen for safe and effective use and does not take the place of talking to your doctor about your treatment. Review the full product information here, and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

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Can you use an expired EpiPen in an emergency?

If someone is having an anaphylactic reaction, and all you have on hand is a recently expired EpiPen, then use it so long as it is not discolored and does not contain any particles. There is minimal risk in using a recently expired EpiPen, but the benefits are significant. But check the clear viewing window of the pen and if you notice it is discolored or contains particles then don’t use it as the solution may have oxidized, making it less effective. Continue reading

What happens if you use an Epipen without needing it?

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends using an EpiPen (generic name: epinephrine) even if you are not sure if it is needed, because the benefits greatly outweigh the risk that you might not need it. Using it unnecessarily can lead to certain side effects, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, tremors, and headache. Continue reading

Can you bring an EpiPen on a plane?

You can bring your EpiPen onto a plane – they are a common medical device and they should not cause any fuss when you are going through airport security. You can carry them in your handbag, laptop bag, or other carry-on luggage. It is a very good idea to take your EpiPen with you on the plane because the small confines of an aircraft increase your odds of being exposed to a trigger allergen while you are flying and having an anaphylactic reaction. Continue reading

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