Design of a New Epinephrine Auto-Injector to Minimize Use Errors

Abstract

Currently marketed epinephrine auto-injectors, designed for single-use in an allergic emergency, are prone to unintentional use errors (e.g., holding the device upside down, causing injury to the administrator and, more importantly, no dose for the patient). A simulated use study showed that two alternative designs for a new epinephrine auto-injector, developed using human factors engineering, can reduce such hazards and were significantly preferred by subjects in all age groups tested. Further clinical testing is required before such a pharmaceutical device can be introduced into the market.