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Gonzales Veterinary Services
659 Tondre Rd NW, 
Los Lunas, 
New Mexico, 
87031 
Phone: (505) 489-0020
Email: tgonzdvm@gmail.com



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Epinephrine Auto-Injectors

What is epinephrine?

Epinephrine is a drug used most often in emergency situations for animals (e.g., anaphylaxis, cardiopulmonary resuscitation/CPR).

Automatic injection devices for epinephrine (EpiPen®, EpiPen® Jr) are used off-label in pets to treat anaphylactic (allergic) reactions that occur away from the veterinary hospital.

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is epinephrine given with an auto-injector?

Epinephrine comes as a liquid solution in an auto-injector. The dose of epinephrine in the auto-injector is pre-measured for one injection into the muscle (IM). Your veterinarian may also provide pre-measured syringes of epinephrine to be used like an EpiPen.
Follow your veterinarian’s directions and give this medication exactly as prescribed.
Keep this medication easily accessible. Consider attaching it to the leash, crate, or something that always travels with the animal.
Speed up absorption by gently massaging the site of the shot.
When handling an epinephrine auto-injector, do not remove the blue safety release until ready to use and never place your hand or fingers over the orange tip, as this is where the needle comes out of the cartridge. If you accidentally inject yourself, contact your physician immediately.

This medication should take effect immediately and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

Epinephrine is reserved for use in emergency situations. If you do not have epinephrine available and your pet starts having an allergic reaction, contact your veterinarian or emergency animal services immediately.

Are there any potential side effects?

It is recommended to contact your veterinarian after giving this drug for follow-up instructions. Epinephrine may cause the following side effects:

increased heart rate
nervousness, restlessness, and excitement
nausea and vomiting
increased blood pressure
repeated injections to the same area of tissue may cause damage to the tissue

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

There are no absolute contraindications in life-threatening situations. Epinephrine should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets:

with diabetes
with high blood pressure
with an abnormal heart rhythm
with a low circulating blood volume
that are pregnant, nursing, or giving birth

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications may interact with epinephrine and so it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is using before starting any new treatment.

Several medications should be used with caution when given with epinephrine, including:

alpha-2-adrenergic agonists (e.g., detomidine, dexmedetomidine, medetomidine, xylazine)
alpha-adrenergic antagonists (e.g., phenoxybenzamine, phentolamine, prazosin)
antihistamines
beta-adrenergic antagonists (e.g., atenolol, propranolol, sotalol)
bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol, terbutaline)
digoxin
isoproterenol
levothyroxine
monoamine oxidase inhibitors (e.g., amitraz, selegiline)
nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin)
oxytocin
phenothaizines (e.g., acepromazine)
phenylpropanolamine
reserpine
tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, clomipramine)

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

Be sure to follow up with your veterinarian after giving epinephrine and follow their instructions for monitoring.

How do I store epinephrine auto-injectors?

Store auto-injectors at about 25°C.
The auto-injectors should not be stored in the refrigerator or a glove box.
The auto-injectors should not be exposed to extreme heat or cold.
The epinephrine should be inspected periodically for particulate matter and discoloration. If any is noted, then throw the epinephrine away.
Keep away from children and other animals.
Check expiration date and refill before expiration date.

Ask your veterinarian for specific disposal instructions. Do not flush medicines down the sink or toilet unless instructed to do so.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Nov 28, 2024.

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We always welcome questions or feedback and look forward to your call or text. You can reach us by calling or texting us.

505-469-0615 – Español 505-489-0020 – English

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Monday: 8am – 5pm Tuesday: 8am – 5pm Wednesday: 8am – 5pm Thursday: 8am – 5pm Friday, Saturday & Sunday: Euthanasia appointments only. Please call for availability.

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If your pet is experiencing an emergency, please click here:

Emergency Information