If you or someone you care about has severe allergies, you know how vital an EpiPen can be. It's a life-saving device that delivers a shot of adrenaline (epinephrine) quickly during a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). When seconds count, having an EpiPen readily available is incredibly important.
In this article, we will answer common questions about getting an EpiPen, with a focus on how the process works in Australia.
Important Note: This article provides general health information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.
An EpiPen is a small, easy-to-use device that gives a measured dose of adrenaline.
Adrenaline is a natural chemical in your body that helps quickly reverse the dangerous symptoms of anaphylaxis.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include:
These symptoms are why an EpiPen is considered an emergency medicine and needs to be used without delay if a reaction occurs.
Yes - in Australia, you can buy an EpiPen without a prescription from a pharmacy.
EpiPens (and a similar device called an Anapen) are classified as “pharmacist-only medicine”. This means they are kept behind the pharmacy counter, not on the open shelves, and a pharmacist must be involved in the sale.
While you can buy an EpiPen directly, it's important to understand the difference between purchasing one this way and getting one with a doctor's prescription.
The most common way people get an EpiPen in Australia is through a doctor's prescription, which often allows for a government subsidy under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). This makes getting an EpiPen much more affordable.
For your very first PBS-subsidised EpiPen prescription, it typically needs to come from a specialist.
This might be an allergist, immunologist, respiratory physician, or paediatrician. Alternatively, if you've recently been discharged from a hospital emergency department after treatment for a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), you might also be able to get an initial PBS prescription.
Once you've received your first PBS prescription under these conditions, any doctor (including your local GP or Updoc) can write follow-up prescriptions when your current device has been used or has expired.
The biggest advantage of getting an EpiPen with a prescription is the cost.
It significantly lowers what you pay compared to the full retail price. Usually, a PBS prescription allows you to get two adrenaline auto-injectors in date.
This is beneficial because it's often recommended to carry two devices in case one doesn't work or a second dose is needed.
If you need an EpiPen quickly and don't have a prescription, or if you need extra devices beyond what the PBS covers, you can purchase one directly from any pharmacy in Australia.
Simply visit your local pharmacy and speak to the pharmacist. They will be able to assist you with the purchase.
When you buy an EpiPen over the counter, you'll pay the full retail price, which can be considerably more than the PBS-subsidised cost.
The pharmacist will still need to have a quick chat with you before handing over the device. This is important because they will provide vital information, including instructions on how to use the EpiPen correctly and what to do in an emergency. They can also explain how to store it and how to check its expiry date.
Purchasing over-the-counter is a good option for:
Owning an EpiPen comes with the responsibility to ensure it's used properly when it's needed.
As we’ve covered, both EpiPen and Anapen devices are available in Australia. While they serve the same purpose, there are some differences in their design and how you activate them. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you understand which device is right for you and show you how to use it.
It’s important to always carry your EpiPen if you have been prescribed one due to a risk of anaphylaxis, as an allergic reaction can happen anywhere, anytime.
Remember to regularly check the expiry date on your EpiPen. The device expires at the end of the month indicated. In addition, if the liquid inside appears cloudy or discoloured, or if there are particles floating in it, it needs to be replaced immediately, even if it's not expired.
Remember to store your EpiPen at room temperature (do not refrigerate it), away from extreme heat or cold, and protect it from light.
Most importantly, if you or your child is at risk of anaphylaxis, you should have an ASCIA Action Plan. This is a personalised document developed by your doctor that outlines what to do if an allergic reaction occurs, including when and how to use the EpiPen.
You’ll want to make sure family members, caregivers, schools, and workplaces all have a copy and understand the plan.
Yes, there is a significant cost difference. EpiPens purchased with a PBS-subsidised prescription are much cheaper than those bought over the counter at full retail price.
While a PBS prescription typically covers two devices, Australian guidelines often recommend that individuals at risk of anaphylaxis carry two in-date adrenaline auto-injectors at all times. This provides a backup in case one is faulty, used incorrectly, or if a second dose is needed.
Yes, schools, childcare centres, workplaces, and other community organisations can purchase EpiPens over the counter from a pharmacy for general use in their first aid kits.
These are for emergencies where an individual's own prescribed device isn't available.
An expired EpiPen may not deliver the correct dose of adrenaline and should not be relied upon. You should replace it as soon as possible.
Even if it's expired, if it's the only one available during a life-threatening emergency, still use it and seek medical help immediately. Always aim to replace expired devices promptly by getting a new prescription or purchasing over-the-counter.
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