sarno@pegasus.UUCP (09/01/83)
I am allergic to bees and have a bee sting kit (available by perscription only). The problem wtih the kit is it is supposed to be refrigerated all the time. Because of this limitation I usually do not take it with me when I go outdoors, and therefore, feel I may not have it available if I need it. Does anyone know of any other ways to handle this problem? Is there anything else available that does not have to be refrigerated? Marianne Sarno ...pegasus!sarno
dyer@wivax.UUCP (09/02/83)
One of my roommates is also allergic to certain wasps, and always carries around a bee kit in a pouch on his belt (sort of makes him look like an engineer carrying a calculator!) Bee sting kits are all exactly alike: they contain a syringe of epinephrine and several antihistamine tablets, plus a tourniquet. It is the epinephrine which is subject to decomposition over time when exposed to light and heat. The instructions say: "KEEP IN A COOL DARK PLACE". Still, I'll bet your doctor didn't write you that prescription thinking you'd be standing near your refrigerator when you get stung! Talk with him to clear this up! If you are truely allergic you should be carrying this around with you whenever you can come in contact with bees (like, whenever you go outdoors.) You should periodically check your syringe for brownish discoloration and keep track of the expiration date. If it's discolored or expired get a new one from your doctor. You shouldn't be a slave to storage instructions when your life can be in danger. /Steve Dyer decvax!wivax!dyer
gandalf@hogpd.UUCP (M.ESTIS) (09/02/83)
I was given Benedryl (SP ?) for this problem. It comes in pill form and
does not have to be refrigerated. However, I don't think it's very
potent and may not be suitable for people for severe reactions.
Monty Estis
hogpd!gandalflaura@utcsstat.UUCP (Laura Creighton) (09/03/83)
A friend of mine keeps his bee sting pacage in a plastic package in a thermous bottle full of ice (and other libations). laura creighton utzoo!utcsstat!laura