Patients told to use expired EpiPens amid UK shortage

Amid a continuing UK shortage, users of EpiPens have been told that they can continue to use the devices four months after their expiration date.

The shortage has been caused by a manufacturing delay in the US which is affecting global supplies of 0.3mg EpiPens. The medical device maker Mylan has faced issues with its contract manufacturer Meridian Medical Technologies, a Pfizer company.

Now, amid shortages, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Agency (MHRA) has agreed to a request by Mylan to extend the use of specific EpiPen 0.3mg auto-injectors by four months.

“We appreciate how important it is for individuals with life-threatening allergies to have access to adrenaline auto-injectors and understand the challenges this situation continues to pose for patients.

“We will continue to proactively and diligently update pharmacies, healthcare professionals and patient advocacy groups across the country regarding any changes in stock availability,” Mylan said in a statement.

It’s anticipated that supplies of EpiPens will stabilise towards the end of the year, according to Pfizer. Until then, Mylan is assuring patients that the extension will “temporarily address” the shortage situation.

The two alternative adrenaline auto-injectors in the UK – Jext and Emerade - have also been “rapidly depleted” according to the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee.

More so, the four-month extension does not apply to the EpiPen Jr 0.15mg device, used for children weighing to 25kg.

Anaphylaxis Campaign has issued guidance for allergy sufferers, stating that they should continue to follow their "usual risk management techniques" and avoid allergen to reduce the likelihood of a severe allergic reaction. 

They have also stated that patients should revisit their GP to find out about any alternative medication and that if prescribed an alternative device, patients should ensure they understand how to use it.