Important advice

The information given here is a reminder of the key points for you to discuss with your patients.

About anaphylaxis

  • It is a good idea for patients to fill in an Action Plan so that they, and those close to them, know how to respond in an emergency. It may be useful for you to complete this form with your patient whilst in the surgery
  • Patients with a food allergy should:
    • be vigilant and check food labels for ingredients
    • ask if their food contains the allergen in restaurants or when buying a takeaway
    • avoid foods if they are not sure of the ingredients
    • consult a dietician who can advise on how to exclude the allergen from their diet
  • Asthma sufferers should make sure they have the right medication and that their condition is well controlled, consulting their doctor or nurse if they are unsure
  • Advise patients to make sure their workplace, school or nursery are aware of what to do should an anaphylactic reaction occur
  • If travelling abroad, either through work or holiday, make sure they know to:
    • take their medication with them
    • download a Phrase Sheet for the country visited, as this allows simple translation in an emergency situation

About injecting EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injector

EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injectors are designed as emergency treatment only, and so patients should be advised to always seek medical help immediately after use by calling an ambulance and stating ‘anaphylaxis’. Patients should never drive themselves to hospital. Patients should also be advised to:

  • have their EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injector available at all times
  • check the date of expiry regularly and make sure to register their EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injector with the MEDA expiry alert programme
  • stay with other people if possible
  • avoid hitting a zip, or contents of the pockets (though there is no need to undress).
  • keep fingers away from both ends to avoid needle-stick injuries
  • check the cartridge window once the contents have been injected, this should show red and the needle should be visible
  • replace the pen in the case, needle end first and take it to the hospital for safe disposal
  • remember that each EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injector can only be used once
  • 57 - IMS Med plus Database, June 2008.

MEDA Skyway House, Parsonage Road, Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 6PU – T +44 (0)845 460 0000 | F +44 (0)845 460 0002 – Email: info@medapharma.co.uk

UK/EPI/11/0059 October 2011