Let’s pay attention to the proper storage of life-saving medications for anaphylaxis even in warm weather.
The summer months can pose challenges not only for beachgoers but also for the storage of various medications. EpiPen and EpiPen Junior, which are life-saving injection devices, play a particularly important role for those who struggle with allergic reactions. In the heat, proper storage is essential to ensure that these medications maintain their effectiveness and can be used safely.
The storage conditions for medications are strict to prevent the degradation of active ingredients. It is important to always keep the products at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer, avoiding extreme temperatures, as these can damage the active ingredient. Additionally, protection from light is also crucial, so appropriate conditions should be considered when storing medications.
Storage Guidelines for EpiPen and EpiPen Junior
The guidelines for storing EpiPen and EpiPen Junior are strict and serve to preserve the effectiveness of the medications. It is best to keep the products in their original packaging and ensure that the temperature does not exceed 25 °C. Placing them in the refrigerator is not recommended, and freezing should also be avoided, as these conditions can negatively affect the quality of the medications.
Checking the medications is also of utmost importance. It is advisable to periodically examine the solution through the viewing window on the side of the injectors. If the color of the solution changes or if it contains any precipitate, the use of the product is prohibited, even if the expiration date has not yet passed. Proper storage is necessary to maintain the effectiveness of the medication, so the expiration date must also be taken into account.
It is important to mention that EpiPen and EpiPen Junior have different shelf lives. While the EpiPen with 300 micrograms of active ingredient is usable for 2 years, the EpiPen Junior with 150 micrograms is valid for 19 months. Monitoring the expiration dates of medications is essential for safe use.
Disposal of Medication Waste
Proper disposal of expired or unnecessary medications is also an important task. Medication waste is considered hazardous from an environmental perspective, so its disposal cannot be done at home. Expired products can be returned free of charge at any pharmacy in the country, where they will be handled properly. Medication waste collection boxes placed in patient areas ensure that waste does not enter the environment, thus protecting nature.
According to the recommendations of the OGYÉI (National Institute of Pharmacy and Nutrition), the ideal storage temperature for EpiPen products is between +9 and +25 °C. Therefore, it is important to maintain the appropriate temperature during travels as well. For those planning to hike or travel, baby bottle thermoses available in baby stores, pharmacies, and online shops provide an ideal solution, as they can help stabilize the temperature of the medications.
Safe storage of medications and the use of environmentally friendly disposal methods not only protect our health but also contribute to the preservation of the community and the environment. Conscious medication use and storage help prevent unwanted consequences while ensuring effective treatment.
