When to use your adrenaline auto-injector (AAI) such as your brand name EpiPen®?
Use your adrenaline auto-injector immediately if you experience ANY of the following serious symptoms of anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock, or anaphylactoid shock:
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Breathing difficulties, such as fast, shallow breathing, or wheezing
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A fast heartbeat
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Clammy skin
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Feeling light-headed or faint
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Confusion and anxiety
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Collapsing
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Loss of consciousness
If you are only experiencing the following mild symptoms, then take your usual anti-histamines and treatments, and in addition have your adrenaline auto-injector ready in case of worsening symptoms:
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Red, raised, itchy rash
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Swelling of face, lips or eyelids
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Abdominal pain, nausea and/or vomiting
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Tingling mouth
Source: "EpiPen Explained" by the EpiPen company, edited for clarity.