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New pack warnings to be added to AAIs

Changes support better emergency use

November 16th 2021

Tagged: Clinical guidance news

By Ailsa Colquhoun

New warnings will be added to Adrenaline Auto-injector packaging to support better emergency use.

  • Packaging recommendations made by the UK Commission on Human Medicines Adrenaline Auto-injector Expert Working Group (AAI EWG)  cover the following:
  • Administer immediately at the first sign of anaphylaxis. Do not delay
  • Call 999 for an ambulance stating anaphylaxis (pronounced “ana-fill-axis”)
  • Use your second auto-injector if there is no improvement after five minutes.
  • Always carry two adrenaline auto-injectors with you and make sure you know how to use your particular auto-injector.

The AAI EWG also recommends healthcare professionals communicate two over-arching key messages:

What to do in an emergency:

  •  Use your adrenaline auto-injector immediately if you have any signs of anaphylaxis. If in doubt use. Don’t delay.
  • Dial 999 – say anaphylaxis (“ana-fill-axis”) – straight after using your auto-injector.
  • Lie down and raise your legs.
  • Sit up if you are struggling to breathe but don’t change position suddenly.
  • Lie down again as soon as you can.
  • Stay lying down even if you are feeling better.
  • You must not stand up even if someone encourages you to.
  • Use your second auto-injector if you haven’t improved after 5 minutes.

Be prepared:

  • Carry two adrenaline auto-injectors with you at all times.
  • You must use your auto-injector as soon as you notice any signs of anaphylaxis.
  • Make sure you know beforehand what the signs are so you can act swiftly.
  • Make sure you know how to use your auto-injector before you need to. Get familiar with it. Get a trainer auto-injector from the manufacturer. Practise. If you change brand, get familiar with the new one. Each one is used differently.