Auvi-Q recalled over dosage delivery problems

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Anna Marie Vilips, 12, is allergic to nuts. A serious reaction could cause her throat to swell, which could cut off her breathing. Her lifesaving epinephrine auto-injector, Auvi-Q, was just recalled.

The Auvi-Q injector is considered the most advance on the market, giving instructions in the event of an emergency.

"So when you're in panic mode and you have a child that's administering to themselves, it's comforting for the parent to know that they know exactly what to do," Sandy Vilips, mother, said.

The company Sanofi recalled all Auvi-Q injections currently in the U.S., roughly 490,000. The problem: the epinephrine injectors may not administer the correct dose of live-saving drugs.

"The concern is that the dosage that you think is in the device may not be accurate. So in the setting of a severe allergic reaction, that potentially could be life-threatening," Dr. Joyce Rabbat, of Loyola University Medical Center said.

Epinephrine auto-injector are readily available at doctor's offices and schools across the country. They can be used to treat allergic reactions to everything from insect bites to food and medicine allergies.

School nurse Joanna Tanveer sent emails to parents about the recall.

"It's a dose dependent kind of drug," school nurse Joanna Tanveer said.

People who use Auvi-Q auto-injectors should find a replacement and then return the recalled device.

Consumers can find out how to return the Auvi-Q product by calling 1-866-726-6340.