Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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2301. To ask the Minister for Health her views on whether EpiPens should be available in public spaces on a similar basis to the public availability of defibrillators. [45507/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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In October 2015, the then minister signed The Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 449/2015) into effect. The regulations increase access to specified prescription-only medicines in an emergency including adrenaline.  This allows for the administration of adrenaline for known or suspected anaphylaxis, to be administered by trained members of the public in emergency situations, without the need for a prescription. Of note, there is provision for organisations such as schools and workplaces to store these medications for the administration by a trained person.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland provide guidance on the implementation of this amendment for pharmacists and the Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) has established a course for the education and training of persons to safely and competently administer adrenaline in an emergency.

There is a responsibility to ensure that medications are stored and administered safely and appropriately. Those with a known risk of anaphylaxis should carefully follow their doctor’s guidance regarding carrying an adrenaline pen (‘EpiPen’) on person.