For those of you who have food allergies (or family members with food allergies) you may be interested in a new epinephrine injector. I usually carry Epi Pens, so it may take a while to get used to this new device. But watch-my insurance company will decide not to cover these!
I've never had to use my Epi-Pen (knock on wood!) The time Son #1 had anaphylaxis (after allergy shots) Asthma Nurse injected him with epinephrine and gave him a breathing treatment. Then she stayed with him for 2 hours, to make sure he didn't have a rebound anaphylaxis event. I will never forget how she saved my son's life.
Since that time, I've been nervous about using an Epi Pen. Watching someone having an anaphylaxis reaction is scary, can I keep my wits about me and use the Epi Pen if I needed to? Auvi-Q "talks" you through how to use one. You can watch the video that shows how to use it here
I've heard that it will be available in the first three months of 2013. Talk to your doctor about what's right for you. Make sure you always have an Epi Pen with you, I wouldn't wait until the new Auvi Q comes out. You never know when you might eat something that has been cross contaminated or has a hidden ingredient. My Epi Pen has gone to the Grand Canyon, Disneyland and Paris. It should have be getting frequent flier miles!
So keep checking your food, and make sure you always have an Epi Pen with you. The life you save could be your own.