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.