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Auto-injector




Most autoinjectors are spring-loaded Syringe s. By design, autoinjectors are easy to use and are intended for self-administration by patients. The site of injection depends on the drug loaded, but it typically is administered into the Thigh or the Buttocks . The injectors were initially designed to overcome the hesitation associated with self-administration of needle-based drugs.

Examples of such autoinjectors are EpiPen s or the recently introduced Twinject , which is often prescribed to persons who are at risk for Anaphylaxis . Another example of an autoinjector is the Rebiject and Rebiject II autoinjectors for Rebif , the drug for Interferon Beta-1a used to treat Multiple Sclerosis .

Autoinjectors are often used in the military to protect personnel from Chemical Warfare agents. In the United States Military , Atropine and 2-PAM-Cl ( Pralidoxime Chloride ) are used for First Aid against nerve agents. In the US military Mark I kits, these drugs are included in separate autoinjectors. A newer autoinjector, the ATNAA ( Antidote Treatment Nerve Agent Auto-Injector ), has both drugs in one syringe, allowing for the simplification of administration procedures. In the Gulf War , accidental and unnecessary use of atropine autoinjectors supplied to Israeli civilians proved to be a major medical problem. Additionally, diazepam ( Valium ) autoinjectors are carried by designated medics for use in patients who suffer seizures due to Nerve Agent exposure.


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