Mylan has confirmed that new stock of EpiPen® 300mcg adrenaline autoinjectors arrived last week and will be available in pharmacies this week. This will be followed by further new stock arriving soon.  Please note that stock levels will take some time to return to normal, so to ensure those at risk of anaphylaxis have access to the treatment they may need, supply should be prioritised for patients with an EpiPen® prescription:

• For a new diagnosis, or

• To replace their EpiPen® which is expiring this month, has recently expired or has recently been used. 

If a pharmacy is out of stock of EpiPen® 300mcg or EpiPen® Jr, the pharmacist can contact their wholesaler/s to obtain stock. If there are any problems the pharmacist should phone Mylan on 1800 274 276.

Important information for schools and early childhood education/care centres

ASCIA recommends that schools and early childhood education/care (ECEC) centres take into account the current limited supply, by:

• Not requesting an additional device (more than one) to be brought to the school or ECEC centre for each child at risk of anaphylaxis, and

• Limiting the replacement of general use devices, until supply is back to normal levels.

It is also important for schools and ECEC centres to note that current ASCIA Action Plans are the 2017 versions, so these are valid for use throughout 2018 until the 'due for review date' on the plan.  A 2016 version of the Action plan is also valid in 2018 if the 'due for review date' is in 2018 or later.  For more information go to www.allergy.org.au/anaphylaxis

Use of expired adrenaline autoinjectors to treat anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a potentially life threatening, severe allergic reaction, that requires immediate treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine). Anaphylaxis should always be treated as a medical emergency. Call an ambulance (000 in Australia) immediately after giving an adrenaline autoinjector.

Whilst the use of an expired adrenaline autoinjector is not ideal, research suggests that recently expired devices retain potency. Therefore, if no other adrenaline autoinjector is available, use of a recently expired device to treat anaphylaxis is advised, as stated on the ASCIA website:

www.allergy.org.au/health-professionals/anaphylaxis-resources/adrenaline-autoinjector-storage-expiry-and-disposal