Epi-pens in cold weather

Hi Helen - this will be our first winter with an Epipen also, but this "newbie" will try to answer your question! You definitely want to protect the Epipen from freezing, as this would cause an adverse effect to the medication within. Don't leave it in the car and that sort of thing. I intend to put it inside my coat, in an inner pocket. Also, a waist pouch holder that your coat would cover would work. As long as it's close to your body warmth, it will be OK. Don't put it right next to your skin though, no need to heat it up too much. Hope this helps! Carolyn

At a meeting of our local support group this past May, there was a rep from Dey Labs, makers of Epi-Pens. He said that what affects the efficacy of the epi formula is LONG-TERM exposure to heat or cold. He said if you're just out for an occasional afternoon in the cold or heat, it shouldn't hurt it. Personally, I still take steps to avoid exposure to temperature extremes - although I haven't dealt with cold yet - but it's nice to know I don't have to worry if they're accidentally left in the heat or cold for a short time.

My sons and I were on a Cub Scout hike and the temps were in the 40's. I didn't know what to do with the epi's, then I hit upon putting them in a sock and sticking them in my sports bra. Worked like a charm but I didn't dare tell my 10 yr old as he would have had a fit.

DeeJay-

Too Funny!!! What a great idea! I can just imagine a ten year old saying " You stuck my epi-pens where?!!!"

DeeJay - well, your cleverness topped mine of putting the epi-pens in the sleeping bag. I, also, didn't dare tell my 9 year old as it would have just reinforced his views that I'm a little "weird".