EpiPen Alternative Approved

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new medication to treat allergic reactions.

The FDA approved Symjepi (epinephrine injection) to treat life-threatening allergic emergencies, including anaphylaxis. It's actually an alternative to the EpiPen. However, it doesn't work as an alternative for EpiPen Jr, which is specifically for those who weigh between 15 and 30 kilograms (roughly 33 to 66 pounds).

Symjepi was approved for patients who weigh 30 kilograms (around 66 pounds) or more.

This new medication is available as a prefilled injection. It is to be injected into the muscle or under the skin in the middle of the outer thigh (upper leg) with the needle facing downward. It can actually be injected through your clothing, if needed.

Each prefilled syringe contains a single dose of epinephrine.

Common side effects include anxiety, restlessness, tremors and weakness.

This medication does not take the place of emergency medical care. If you use this medication for an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical treatment.

Symjepi is manufactured for Adamis Pharmaceuticals.