Serious allergies in the hot weather

Anaphylaxis UK helping you to keep your adrenaline cool.

The hot weather brings additional challenges to those with serious allergies who carry adrenaline auto-injectors.

Adrenaline is the first line of treatment for serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). It is available on prescription in a pre-loaded injection device (known as an adrenaline auto-injector, adrenaline injectors or AAI).

Anyone who is at risk of anaphylaxis should always carry two in-date AAIs with them at all times.

Here are a few tips to help during this mini heat wave on how to safely keep your AAIs.

Storing your Adrenaline Auto-Injector (AAI) in Hot weather

Making sure your AAI is easy to get to and in good working condition can save your life.

The way you store your AAI can affect how well it works so it’s important to look them, especially in hot weather. It can be quite difficult when it’s hot but understanding how to keep your AAI at the right temperature is crucial.

The ideal temperature for storing an AAI in the hot weather

AAIs should be stored in a cool dark place at room temperatures below 25C.

Don’t keep your AAI in the fridge or freezer because this could damage the mechanisms inside the device.

Temperatures above 25C can affect the potency and stability of the adrenaline. In the hot weather, temperature control for adrenaline auto injectors is important to make sure they will work when needed.

Keep away from direct sunlight

Exposure to UV radiation can cause the adrenaline to degrade over time. It’s important to store AAIs in a dark location out of direct sunlight but ensure it is still accessible.

How to store your AAI in hot weather

Don’t leave your AAI in the car

When out and about, it’s important not to leave your AAIs in the car. Cars can easily overheat, especially when parked in direct sunlight and high temperatures will affect the performance of the adrenaline which may make the AAI unsafe for you need them in an emergency.

Use an insulated bag

The best way to control temperatures for an AAI is to store them in an insulated bag like the ones used for picnics. Keeping your AAIs in a cool bag will protect them from extreme heat without having a negative effect on the mechanisms inside the injector. AAIs have a small window for inspecting the adrenaline liquid which should be clear and no signs of discolouration or visible particles. If the liquid isn’t clear you will need to get a new AAI.

If you have any questions or want further information please contact our Helpline.