Important update: ALLERJECT® auto-injector availability
Article Published July 29, 2024
Article Source: Important update: ALLERJECT® auto-injector availability - Food Allergy Canada
Drug Shortages Canada has reported a shortage of ALLERJECT® auto-injectors in Canada due to supply constraints. This shortage impacts both the 0.3mg and 0.15mg doses. We contacted Valeo, the Canadian distributor for ALLERJECT, to learn more about the supply constraints and the impact to Canadians.
Unfortunately, Valeo has advised that this supply constraint will not be a temporary issue, and ALLERJECT is likely to be indefinitely out of supply once the current stock runs out. Valeo cannot, at this moment, provide specific timelines for a potential return of normal supply.
While we are saddened to learn this news, we have been working hard behind-the-scenes to ensure Canadians are not vulnerable if there is a future shortage of EpiPen® – the only remaining supplier of epinephrine auto-injectors in Canada. Valeo has advised that they will work with the government to assess the possibility that ALLERJECT may be a potential back-up device option in this situation. Additionally, our discussions with Health Canada provided reassurance that more effort is being undertaken to prevent shortages and minimize the impact if they happen. More details on Health Canada’s plan to address health product shortages can be found on canada.ca.
What you should do if you have an ALLERJECT auto-injector:
Visit your local pharmacy to get the auto-injectors while you can. If you have an expired ALLERJECT auto-injector or one that is about to expire, check with your local pharmacy(s) to have it replaced. As a reminder, the expiry date applies to the last day of the month noted on the device.
EpiPen auto-injectors remain available in both the 0.3mg and 0.15mg doses.
As always, continue to follow and review our safety tips for managing food allergy and preventing reactions.
We will continue to work hard on your behalf with Health Canada, pharmaceuticals, and other stakeholders to advocate for access to epinephrine in Canada, including non-needle delivery forms when they become available.
For further information or questions, please contact Valeo directly at 1-855-694-0151.
This safety update is a part of our Allergy Alerts service, which includes food and product recalls, allergen changes from food manufacturers, and labelling updates.
You can count on our Allergy Alerts service to ensure you are kept informed on safety issues that impact you.