Support Alert

Revised interim protocol in dispensing of adrenaline auto-injectors, 150microgram applying from 5 November 2018 until further notification

The Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) has issued a revised interim dispensing protocol on dispensing of adrenaline auto-injectors, 150microgram. This is to take effect immediately. 

Children weighing 25kg or less with the greatest short term need must still have access to these first, but stock positions are now sufficient to ensure that every patient has at least two 150microgram adrenaline auto-injectors that are either in date or have a formally extended expiry date (see listed batches for Jext and Epipen). This can only be achieved by continuing prescription validation before the issue of new devices. 

Consequently, all prescriptions (private and NHS) must continue to be validated prior to supply to the community pharmacy or dispensing doctor practice, for a named patient from the wholesaler, by utilising the flow chart. 

Pharmacists must continue to follow the flow chart prior to supply of 150microgram adrenaline auto-injectors other than when there is an immediate clinical need and clearly explain the above situation to the patient/ parent/ carer and address any questions they may have. 

Further information on the updated protocol, actions for pharmacists and the flow chart can be found here.

DHSC has also published updated Pharmacy and Dispensing Practice Q&A regarding EpiPen and EpiPen Junior Supply issue. This includes further information on the recommendations to healthcare professionals. You can access the Q&A here.
 

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