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A recent media report said epinephrine auto-injectors are in short supply and/or not available nationwide. This report is incorrect. The report has led to panic among many living with food allergies.

 

 epi-shortage-response

Any such report is a gross misinterpretation. A nationwide notice came out that says some forms of epinephrine are in short supply. Epinephrine is a life-saving treatment for severe allergic reactions to food or other allergens. Patients at risk for anaphylaxis carry pre-loaded auto-injectors. The epinephrine shortage DOES NOT include EpiPenâ„Ē or  Auvi-Qâ„Ē auto-injectors.

 

The shortage specifically states that the ONLY products affected are:

  • 1 mg/mL ampules and multi-dose vials, and
  • 0.1 mg/mL preloaded 10 mL syringes
  • Used by hospitals, physician offices and emergency medical services.

 

We have confirmed with both Mylan and Sanofi, the makers of EpiPen and Auvi-Q:

  • There is NO national shortage of these products, at either pediatric (0.15 mg) or adult (0.3 mg) dosages.

 

We remain committed to providing accurate information for the millions of people living with allergic conditions. We hope to continue to serve as a resource of timely evidence-based information now and in the future.

 

As always, contact your physician or allergist with any questions specific to your medical care.

 

David Stukus, MD

Chair, Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Subcommittee of the Medical/Scientific Council for the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

Secretary, Board of Directors, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

 

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I just emailed the ABC station WRIC in VA who issued the report, asking that they issue a correction and update on their report of July 13. Aside from the confusion about injections vs. auto-injectors, there was a whole lot of weird quoting of the pediatrician, who sounds either misinformed or misquoted.

Was wondering if KFA or AAFA has reached out to them?

StephC

That's a really good question.  And my understanding is that some carry ampules and some carry autoinjectors. And depending on the squad they send, they may or may not be authorized to inject.  This all varies by locality.  So, you really do need to contact your local first responders and find out what they do carry.

Kathy P

That is an interesting question! In fact, it is never a given that any squad will have epinephrine. Where I live, basic life support squads (BLS, and most often volunteers) have to apply to the state (NJ) to carry it, and then they use auto-injectors. Advanced EMTs, or paramedics from hospitals - I am not sure what they carry but I think they are auto-injectors - I read there is one state out west that started carrying ampules and syringes to cut down on cost.

 

There are other companies that do have a supply of the ampules on hand.

 

That being said, I suppose it doesn't hurt to call and say hello, and see what their status is. 

Allison
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