Information AboutTwinject |
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Twinject is the registered trademark of the first Epinephrine Autoinjector that contains two doses. It is used in medicine as an emergency treatment for severe allergic reaction ( Anaphylaxis .) HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT ''Twinject'' was originally designed and manufactured by and Canada . United States ''Twinject'' was released in the United States on August 16, 2005. It was the first, and currently only, two dose Epinephrine Autoinjector approved for use in the United States by the FDA . In the U.S. autoinjectors are a regulated Medical Device and require a Prescription from a medical doctor. Verus Pharmaceuticals Announces U.S. Launch of Twinject for Anaphylaxis The device is available in two strengths. In April 2007 Verus announced that changes were being made to the device, but the actual proposed modifications have not yet been made public. Canada On July 27, 2005, Verus announced that it had entered into an exclusive agreement with , per se (it is kept behind the counter in pharmacies.) While it does not require a Prescription , many patients choose to have it prescribed as many insurance companies will only cover the cost of the device if it is prescribed. In Canada the ''Twinject'' usually retails between $95 CAD and $115 CAD http://twinject.ca/en/faqs.php Europe On August 21, 2006, Verus announced that UCB, a European pharmaceutical company, will begin marketing and producing the ''Twinject'' for distribution in Europe. While the ''Twinject'' has yet to be sold outside Canada or the U.S., UCB has the option of commercialize the entire ''Twinject'' product line in all other territories beyond Europe (excluding the U.S. and Canada). Verus Pharmaceuticals Announces Agreement with UCB for Commercialization of Twinject® in Europe Most markets in Europe require a prescription for epinephrine autoinjectors. DOSAGE The ''Twinject'' is available in two doses:
USAGE The ''Twinject'' is used to temporarily reverse the effects of a severe allergic reaction. Advanced medical care is required immediately after administering the epinephrine. The ''Twinject'' contains a spring-loaded needle that shoots through a membrane in the tip and into the recipient's body to deliver the medication. A patient uses the device by removing the green locking cap from the bottom of the device, then the red cap at the top, forming a fist around the unit, and jabbing it firmly into a thigh until the click of the spring-loaded needle activating is heard. The patient holds the device in place for 10-15 seconds as the epinephrine is delivered. Using the device Intravenously or Subcutaneously is highly discouraged. After administering the device, patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention as epinephrine will temporarily relieve the symptoms of Anaphylaxis but advanced medical care is required to permanently reverse the reaction. The second dose can be used after 10 minutes if the symptoms have not receded or if they begin to return before medical help has been reached. To administer the second dose, the gray cap must be removed. Then, being careful with the exposed needle, the full syringe needs to be removed. Then a yellow (in the 0.3mg dose autoinjector) or orange cap (in the 0.15mg dose autoinjector) needs to be taken off the plunger. Then can the needle be inserted into the thigh and the plunger can be pushed completely down. It is advised that the second dose be prepared immediately following the first dose in order for it to be ready to administer when required. Contraindications There are no known contraindications to the use of epinephrine in a life-threatening allergic reaction. STORAGE The ''Twinject'' usually has a Shelf Life of about 12 months or until the epinephrine (usually a clear liquid) begins to contain a Precipitate , discolor (pinkish color, or more than only a slight yellow color.) Once either of these occurs the ''Twinject'' should be immediately replaced. However, in the event of a life-threatening allergic reaction, even if the epinephrine has expired, the ''Twinject'' should be used. The ''Twinject'' should be stored between 20° and 25°C/68°-77°F. During excursions, epinephrine may be kept at a temperature of 15°-30°C/59°-86°F . It should not be allowed to freeze and should not be refrigerated. SEE ALSO
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