An EpiPen or another epinephrine auto-injector is a sharp. Used, expired, unwanted, and recalled devices all need a route that protects people from the needle.
If an injector was used for a suspected anaphylactic reaction, follow its emergency instructions and call 911. Disposal comes after urgent medical care.
After an EpiPen Is Used
Use the device exactly as prescribed, then get emergency medical help. The EpiPen manufacturer says to give the used auto-injector to the healthcare provider who assists you.
Keep your hands away from either end. Do not try to recap, bend, clip, remove, or touch the needle.
A used EpiPen with its extended needle cover may not fit back into the carrier tube. Do not force it.
If a healthcare professional cannot take it immediately, place it in an FDA-cleared sharps container as soon as possible.
Put Expired or Unwanted EpiPens in a Sharps Container
EpiPen’s current instructions direct expired, unwanted, and unused devices into an FDA-cleared sharps container. Do not put a loose auto-injector in household trash or recycling.
The FDA includes auto-injectors among household sharps. It recommends a cleared container when one is available.
If you do not have one, the FDA describes a heavy-duty plastic household container with a tight, puncture-resistant lid as an alternative. Follow every listed container requirement.
Label the alternative container as hazardous and do not recycle it. Keep either container upright, closed, and away from children and pets.
Find the Full-Container Route
Sharps disposal rules differ by location. The FDA suggests checking local trash or health departments, safe needle disposal services, or the number 1-800-643-1643.
Possible services include supervised drop boxes, household hazardous waste sites, mail-back programs, or special pickup. Confirm that the service accepts auto-injectors and household users.
Do not assume a pharmacy, hospital, police station, medicine kiosk, or general sharps site accepts every container. Call first.
Do not overfill the container. Secure the lid as directed when it reaches the marked fill line.
Check Recalls Separately
Search the FDA recall notices and the manufacturer’s site using the exact product, strength, lot, and expiration date.
Follow a matching recall’s return or replacement directions. Do not put a recalled injector in a routine kiosk unless the notice or receiver tells you to.
Keep an EpiPen Ready Until Replacement
Arrange a refill early enough to replace the pack before its expiration date, as the manufacturer directs. If it has already expired, contact your prescriber or pharmacist promptly.
Store the in-date replacement according to its label. Do not leave it in extreme heat or cold, and inspect the viewing window as the instructions describe.
Never donate or give a prescription auto-injector to another person. Questions about a prescription belong with your pharmacist or prescriber.