I propose to take Questions Nos. 523, 536, 554 and 579 to 581, inclusive, together.
Adrenaline pens, as injectable medicines, may only be supplied on foot of a valid prescription. However, there is provision in the Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) Regulations 2003 (as amended) which permits pharmacists, advanced paramedics, paramedics and emergency medical technicians, in emergency circumstances, to supply certain prescription only medicines including adrenaline injections without a prescription. My Department is currently examining the feasibility, taking account of policy and patient safety considerations, of amending the Prescription Regulations to facilitate wider availability of adrenaline pens in emergency situations, by persons trained in the administration of these pens.
This is a complex area and includes consideration of a wide range of issues such as appropriate training, including in the identification of anaphylaxis, conditions attached to use of the adrenaline pen, product availability and product shelf life. My Department is working closely with the Irish Medicines Board (IMB) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) on these issues, including consideration of the UCC proposal referred to by Deputy Adams.