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Allergies can be deadly. Students at Rice University have proposed EpiWear, a prototype device that could be a possible alternative to EpiPen, the expensive auto-injector of epinephrine, which is now lacking in many countries. ( Brandon Martin | Rice University )
Severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening and epinephrine auto-injectors can help save lives. Students at Rice University offered EpiWear, a portable alternative to EpiPen.
The bioengineering majors have developed a portable device that can administer an epinephrine injection in an emergency. This device can help eliminate the need for EpiPens, which are expensive and can have fatal consequences.
Students at Rice University hope that their innovative creation will result in a more elegant delivery device, but less expensive and more likely to be worn by users.
A solution to his own allergy
Justin Tang, a junior bioengineer from Rice University suffering from severe peanut allergies, had the idea of a wearable device.
"I am very self-conscious and worried about my life, but it was always difficult for me to bring something as cumbersome and intrusive as this one when I was having dinner with friends or just to go out at night, "Tang said, referring to the pen-shaped syringe that he wears for emergency shooting.
Tang helped design a small, foldable epinephrine delivery device intended to be worn on the wrist, as a watch, or elsewhere on the body by a person at risk for an allergic reaction requiring immediate response.
Based on the prototype, the hinged device is about the same length as the commercially available epinephrine pens, with the dose in the middle and a powerful spring at the top. Releasing a safety lever will allow the user to push a cap on top that cuts a line and releases the spring, plunging the syringe into the thigh of the user.
EpiWear can inject a dose of 0.3 milliliters of epinephrine. This device, which is available to everyone, except young children, could be a good alternative to EpiPen and other epinephrine auto-injectors available on the market.
"If it's something that will save your life, we think it would be enough to persuade people to keep it on their bodies," said Alex Li, also a graduate of Rice University's Bioengineering, and collaborator of the project.
Answer to anaphylaxis
Life-threatening allergies can include severe reactions to insect bites, certain foods, medications, latex or other allergens. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that affects the entire body and, in some cases, can cause death. It occurs in about one in 50 Americans.
People who have experienced an episode of anaphylaxis are still at risk for another episode and should always carry an emergency dose of epinephrine.
Alternatives to EpiPen
according to Journal of LancetEpiPen, the leading brand of epinephrine auto-injectors used to treat anaphylaxis, has been out of stock since November 2017. Australia, Canada, the United States and the United States. UK reported shortages of EpiPens nationwide.
The EpiPen, which administers intramuscular epinephrine, can be used in children by parents and teachers as soon as the first signs of anaphylaxis appear. EpiPens are prescribed in two doses: 300 micrograms for adults and children weighing at least 30 kilos and 150 micrograms for EpiPen Junior for children weighing less than 30 kilos. EpiPens are also expensive with a price of $ 600 or more for a double pack.
Mylan, owner of the EpiPen brand, blamed the shortage on manufacturer Meridian Medical Technologies. Mylan dominates 90% of the epinephrine auto-injectors market and EpiPen is the only auto-injector available in Canada and Australia. Alternative brands such as Jext and Emerade are available in Europe, while Auvi-Q and Adrenaclick are already available in US markets.
Due to the shortage of EpiPens, it has been advised to physicians and pharmacists to prescribe and issue alternative generic brands and products whenever possible. As a result, stocks of alternative auto-injectors are also threatened.
In August 2018, the Food and Drugs Administration approved the first generic version of EpiPen and EpiPen Junior manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals.
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