Auvi-Q is a compact epinephrine auto-injector used to treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). What sets it apart from other epinephrine devices like the EpiPen is its built-in voice guidance system, which talks you through each step of the injection process, and its credit card-sized form factor that fits easily in a pocket or small purse. It’s made by Kaléo, Inc. and is available in three dosage strengths for patients ranging from infants to adults.
How Auvi-Q Works
Like all epinephrine auto-injectors, Auvi-Q delivers a pre-measured dose of epinephrine into muscle tissue during anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a rapid, whole-body allergic reaction that can cause throat swelling, a dangerous drop in blood pressure, and difficulty breathing. Epinephrine reverses these effects by opening airways, tightening blood vessels, and stimulating the heart. It buys critical time while you wait for emergency medical help.
The device is designed for people with no medical training. When you pull off the outer case, an electronic voice begins guiding you step by step: remove the safety guard, place the device against the outer thigh, press firmly until you hear a click and hiss, and hold for 2 seconds. After the injection is complete, the needle automatically retracts back into the housing, so there’s no exposed sharp to worry about. This retraction feature is especially useful when giving the injection to a young child who may be squirming or fighting the process.
Available Doses and Who They’re For
Auvi-Q comes in three strengths, selected based on body weight:
- 0.3 mg: For patients weighing 66 pounds (30 kg) or more, which covers most older children, teens, and adults.
- 0.15 mg: For patients weighing 33 to 66 pounds (15 to 30 kg), typically younger children.
- 0.1 mg: For patients weighing 16.5 to 33 pounds (7.5 to 15 kg), designed for infants and toddlers.
The 0.1 mg dose is notable because it was the first epinephrine auto-injector specifically designed for the smallest patients. Before it existed, caregivers of infants with severe allergies had fewer options for a pre-filled, ready-to-use device. The needle on this smallest dose is just 0.29 inches long, sized for the thigh of a very young child.
How to Use It
Auvi-Q is injected into the outer thigh only, roughly in the middle of the thigh between the hip and knee. It can be given through clothing if needed. You place the black end of the device against the thigh, press firmly until you hear a click and hiss, then hold it in place for 2 seconds. The voice prompts walk you through this in real time.
After using it, the needle retracts automatically. Each device contains a single dose. Prescriptions come in a carton with two auto-injectors, because a second dose is sometimes necessary if symptoms return or don’t improve within a few minutes. Even after a successful injection, anaphylaxis always requires a trip to the emergency room for monitoring.
Size and Portability
One of the biggest practical differences between Auvi-Q and other auto-injectors is its shape. Rather than the pen-style cylinder of an EpiPen, Auvi-Q is flat and rectangular, roughly the size of a credit card but thicker. For people who need to carry epinephrine everywhere, this makes it easier to slip into a front pocket, a clutch purse, or a child’s small backpack. The compact design was a deliberate choice by the developers, who themselves have severe food allergies.
Cost and Patient Assistance
Auvi-Q has no generic version available, and the list price can be high. However, Kaléo runs assistance programs that significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Through the Auvi-Q Support Program, patients with commercial insurance may pay a copay of $35 or less per carton, with a maximum savings of $150 per carton. Actual costs can vary depending on your insurance plan’s deductible and design.
For patients without insurance who are experiencing financial hardship, a separate Patient Assistance Program may provide Auvi-Q at no cost. You can reach that program by calling 877-302-8847. Auvi-Q also ships directly to patients’ homes through a specialty pharmacy model rather than being stocked at most retail pharmacies, which can simplify refills but sometimes catches first-time users off guard.
Side Effects of Epinephrine
The side effects of Auvi-Q are the side effects of epinephrine itself, not unique to the device. After an injection, it’s common to feel a racing heartbeat, shakiness, anxiety, dizziness, or a headache. Some people feel nauseous or notice temporary paleness at the injection site. These effects are short-lived and are generally considered an acceptable trade-off during a life-threatening allergic reaction. Epinephrine is the only first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, so there are no absolute reasons to avoid using it when a severe reaction is happening.
People with certain heart conditions, high blood pressure, or thyroid disorders may be more sensitive to epinephrine’s cardiovascular effects. But the FDA labeling is clear: none of these conditions should stop someone from using the device during anaphylaxis. The risk of not treating a severe allergic reaction is far greater.
Storage Tips
Epinephrine degrades with heat, cold, and light exposure. Store Auvi-Q at room temperature and keep it in its outer case until you need it. Don’t leave it in a hot car, a freezing glove compartment, or in direct sunlight for extended periods. Check the viewing window periodically: if the liquid looks discolored or contains particles, the device should be replaced. Each carton has a printed expiration date, and using an expired auto-injector in a true emergency is better than using nothing at all, but keeping a current one on hand is the goal.