Severe allergic reactions can be deadly and epinephrine auto-injectors can help save lives. Rice University students came up with EpiWear, a wearable alternative to EpiPen.

Bioengineering majors developed a wearable device that can administer an epinephrine shot during an emergency. This device may help eliminate the need for EpiPens, which are costly and can have fatal consequences.

The Rice University students hope that their innovative creation will lead to a more stylish yet less expensive delivery device that will be more likely worn by users.

A Solution To His Own Allergy

Justin Tang, a bioengineering junior at Rice University who has severe peanut allergies, came up with the idea of a wearable device.

"I'm very self-aware and worried about my life, but it was always difficult for me to bring something as bulky and obtrusive as this when going to dinner with friends or just going out at night," said Tang, referring to the penlike syringe he carries for emergency shot.

Tang helped design a small, foldable epinephrine delivery device meant to be worn on a wrist, like a watch, or elsewhere on the body by a person at risk of an allergic reaction that requires an immediate response.

Based on the prototype, the hinged device is just about the same length as the epinephrine pens in the market, with the dose in the middle section and a strong spring in the top. Releasing a safety lever will allow the user to push a cap on top that cuts a line and releases the spring, plunging the syringe into the user's thigh.

The EpiWear can inject a dose of 0.3 milliliters of epinephrine. This device, which is intended for all except for small children, could be a good alternative to EpiPen and other epinephrine auto-injectors available in the market.

"If it's something that's going to save your life, we think that would be enough to persuade people to maintain it on their bodies," said Alex Li, also a bioengineering major at Rice University, and a collaborator in the project.

Answer To Anaphylaxis

Life-threatening allergies can include severe reactions to insect bites or stings, certain foods, medications, latex, or other allergens. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that affects the whole body and, in some cases, can cause death. It occurs in approximately one in 50 Americans.

People who have experienced an anaphylaxis episode always face the risk of another one and must carry an emergency dose of epinephrine at all times.

Alternatives To EpiPen

According to Lancet Journal, EpiPen, the leading brand of epinephrine auto-injectors that are used to treat anaphylaxis, have been in short supply since November 2017. Countries including Australia, Canada, United States, and the UK have reported nationwide shortages of EpiPens.

The EpiPen that administers epinephrine intramuscularly can be used on children by parents and teachers at the first sign of anaphylaxis. EpiPens are prescribed in two doses: 300 micrograms for adults and children weighing 30 kilos or more, and 150 micrograms in the EpiPen Junior for children who weigh less than 30 kilos. EpiPens are also expensive with a price tag of $600 or more for a twin pack.

Mylan, who owns the EpiPen brand, blamed manufacturer Meridian Medical Technologies for the shortage. Mylan dominates 90 percent of the epinephrine auto-injector market, and EpiPen is the only auto-injector available in Canada and Australia. Alternative brands such as Jext and Emerade are available in Europe, while Auvi-Q and Adrenaclick are already available in the U.S. markets.

With the shortage of EpiPens, doctors and pharmacists were advised to prescribe and dispense alternative brands and generics wherever possible. As a result, the stocks of alternative auto-injectors are also threateningly low.

In August 2018, the Food and Drugs Administration approved the first generic version of the EpiPen and EpiPen Junior made by Teva Pharmaceuticals.