First Aid - EpiPen Use and UK Regulations

An EpiPen is a life-saving medical device used to treat severe allergic reactions — also known as anaphylaxis.
An EpiPen gives a quick shot of adrenaline which helps open up a person’s airways, reduce swelling, and get the person’s blood pressure back to normal.



Demonstrating with the empty EpiPen, Akmal explained, “When using an EpiPen, you inject it sideways - not downwards. You need to press it firmly until you hear a ‘click’. Once activated, hold it in place for 10 seconds – this is recommended as a general rule.”

In case of doubt, First Aiders can administer an EpiPen to a casualty in the event of an emergency, especially if the person in distress has their EpiPen on them or close by. The Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Act 2015 (SARAH Act) is a piece of legislation in England and Wales that aims to protect individuals acting responsibly for the benefit of society, especially in emergency situations.