Choosing the Optimal Self-Injector Epinephrine

Purpose of review Anaphylaxis is an acute, systemic, life-threatening allergic reaction, and its choice treatment is epinephrine. Epinephrine may be administered by several routes, but intramuscular is the preferred one because of its fast time of action, as well as easy access. Several devices are commercially available for self-administration, with some differences between them. There are concerns about defects or errors in administration when using autoinjectors. Recent findings The main factors that determine the correct use of an autoinjector are the length of needle, body mass index, use of clothing, type of device, and training of the person applying epinephrine. Comparing different devices not only highlights some differences between them; but it also finds the similarities in their effectiveness and defects. There are areas of opportunity in the design and route of administration that may be addressed in future research. Summary This review focuses on devices for treatment of anaphylaxis like autoinjectors and includes analysis of factors specific to the device, as well as those dependent on the patient and who applies the device. The best device will be the one that is available, together with adequate training of patient/caregiver and health personnel for its correct use.