A new safety campaign has been launched to raise awareness of anaphylaxis, below is the new guidance and a link to a video about the correct use of adrenaline auto injectors:-
adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) should be used without delay if anaphylaxis is suspected, even if in doubt about the severity of the event
signs may include swelling in the throat or tongue, wheezing or breathing difficulty, dizziness, tiredness and confusion
immediately dial 999 to summon emergency medical help after administering adrenaline; say anaphylaxis (“ana-fill-axis”)
if you are not already lying down, lie down flat and raise your legs (if you’re pregnant, lie on your left side); this will assist blood flow to the heart and vital organs
stay lying down even if you feel better
if you struggle to breathe, you can gently sit up – don’t change position suddenly; you should then lie down again as soon as you can
do not stand up even if someone encourages you to
use your second AAI if you haven’t improved after 5 minutes
you should always carry 2 AAIs at all times; check the expiry dates and see a pharmacist if you need a replacement
report any suspected defective AAIs to the Yellow Card scheme. Keep defective AAIs for investigation. Your report improves the safety of medicines and medical devices