Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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663. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on dealing with emergency cases concerning allergies (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27383/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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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.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland, the Pharmacy Regulator, is conducting an investigation into the case referred to by the Deputy. It would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment at this time. My Department is currently examining the feasibility, taking account of policy and patient 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.