Anapen® now approved for 3 seconds - September 2022
The time for Anapen® adrenaline (epinephrine) autoinjectors to be held in place has now been approved for 3 seconds (reduced from 10 seconds) by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Whilst the time has reduced from 10 to 3 seconds, Anapen® devices have not changed. This reduction is based on data that confirms efficacy and delivery of adrenaline through the 3 second time frame.
All Anapen® devices should now be held in place for 3 seconds, regardless of the instructions on the label. However, if they are held for 10 seconds it will not affect the way that the adrenaline works.
Anapen® devices with the 3 second label are expected to enter pharmacies in Australia from January 2023 onwards. In the meantime, Anapen® devices with a 10 second label can continue to be used, and injected for 3 seconds. Anapen® devices should not be replaced unless they have been used, are just about to expire or have expired.
To access the updated Anapen® versions of the ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis (red) and ASCIA First Aid Plan for Anaphylaxis (orange) go to www.allergy.org.au/hp/anaphylaxis/ascia-action-plan-for-anaphylaxis
ASCIA anaphylaxis e-training courses have been revised to include the updated Anapen® version of the ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis and instructions. To access the courses go to www.allergy.org.au/about-ascia/about-ascia-e-training
Information is also available on the Anapen website which has been updated to include a 3-D animation https://www.anapen.com.au/explore-in-3d and the option of entering product expiry so a reminder to renew can be received. The reminder email will be sent one month prior to expiry.
The Anapen® version of the ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis (red) is provided to people with allergies who have been prescribed Anapen® adrenaline autoinjectors, which have been available on the PBS in Australia since September 2021. In September 2022 the TGA has approved Anapen® to be held in place for 3 seconds (reduced from 10 seconds).
Anapen® doses recommended by ASCIA:
- Anapen® 150 (Jr): Children 7.5-20 kg (~1-5 yr)
- Anapen® 300: Adults or children >20kg (>5 yr)
- Anapen® 500: Adults or children >50kg (>12 yr)
This news item was issued on 9 September 2022 and updated on 19 October by Jill Smith, CEO of ASCIA, the peak professional body for clinical immunology and allergy in Australia and New Zealand.