Patients should inform their doctors or pharmacists if they are allergic to sulfites or other medications. Some rare individuals may be intolerant to epinephrine and have a stronger-than-normal reaction to the medication.  Because epinephrine can be life-saving, a physician may encourage self-injection in emergencies despite the accentuated reaction.  

Patients also should tell a physician if they previously have experienced chest pain or a heart attack, irregular heartbeat, diabetes, high blood pressure, or an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). Women who are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant should consult a physician with regard to how epinephrine may affect the fetus.