The MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) have made a recommendation in May 2014. This recommendation is aimed at those that carry adrenaline auto-injectors (Emerade, EpiPen, and Jext).
Advice to give to people with allergies and their carers:
- Carry two adrenaline auto-injectors at all times. This is particularly important for people who also have allergic asthma as they are at increased risk of a severe anaphylactic reaction.
- Use the adrenaline auto-injector at the first signs of a severe allergic reaction.
- Take the following actions immediately after every use of an adrenaline auto-injector:
- Call 999, ask for an ambulance and state “anaphylaxis”, even if symptoms are improving.
- Lie flat with the legs raised in order to maintain blood flow. If you have breathing difficulties sit up to make breathing easier.
- Seek help immediately after using the auto-injector and if at all possible stay with the person while waiting for the ambulance.
- If the person does not start to feel better, the second auto-injector should be used 5 to 15 minutes after the first
- Check the expiry date of the adrenaline auto-injectors and obtain replacements before they expire. Expired injectors will be less effective.
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