Proper disposal of automatic epinephrine injectors
Question:
Reviewed: 5/8/2019
8/20/2013
What is required or recommended for proper disposal of EpiPen and Auvi-Q. I understand that there are guidelines for safe disposal of needles that might be biohazards. Are these counted as needles? How about the lithium hydride battery in the Auvi-Q?
From the EpiPen web site:
Can I reuse the EpiPen Auto-Injector?
No. Although most of the liquid remains in the EpiPen Auto-Injector after an injection, it cannot be reused. Take your used EpiPen or EpiPen Jr Auto-Injector with you to the emergency room or health care professional’s office for proper disposal.
From the Auvi-Q website:
How do I properly dispose of Auvi Q?
Take your Auvi Q to a healthcare professional for proper disposal and a prescription refill.
Answer:
The FDA website has information regarding disposal of Sharps. You will see pictures there of automatic epinephrine injectors which are considered Sharps, no different than the needles you use in your office. Automatic epinephrine injectors, regardless of type, are disposed of in the same manner as all other medical Sharps. One would not attempt to remove a battery from these devices as one would not attempt to dismantle any Sharps. Patients should be advised to take used injectors to a location, such as their physicians office, which has Sharps disposal capabilities.
Thank you again for your inquiry and we hope this response is helpful to you.
Sincerely,
Phil Lieberman, M.D.