What are the key considerations for prescribing adrenaline auto-injectors for patients with a history of anaphylaxis?

For patients with a history of anaphylaxis, key considerations for prescribing adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) include providing them as an interim measure and ensuring comprehensive patient education ¹.

• Interim Measure: After emergency treatment for suspected anaphylaxis, an appropriate adrenaline injector should be offered as an interim measure before the patient's appointment with a specialist allergy service ¹.
• Prescription Quantity: A prescription for two further adrenaline injectors should be provided, with advice for the patient to carry both injectors with them at all times ¹.
• Patient Education and Demonstration: Before discharge, a healthcare professional with appropriate skills should offer a brand-specific demonstration of the correct use of the adrenaline injector and when to use it ¹. This includes advice that the person should lie down after using the AAI (or sit up if struggling to breathe) and should not stand up or change position suddenly, even if they feel better ¹.
• Information Provision: Patients (or their parents/carers) should receive information about anaphylaxis, including its signs and symptoms, the risk of a biphasic reaction, and what to do if a reaction occurs (use the AAI and call emergency services) ¹. Advice on how to avoid the suspected trigger (if known) should also be given ¹.
• Referral: Information about the need for referral to a specialist allergy service and the referral process should be provided ¹.