Spare AAIs can be used if:
- a pupil’s own prescribed medication is unavailable
- cannot be accessed quickly enough
- is out of date or has misfired or
- an additional dose of adrenaline is needed during an anaphylactic reaction
Spare devices should be used primarily for pupils with a known risk of anaphylaxis who have medical authorisation and written parental consent.
In exceptional circumstances, for any child or adult presenting with an unexpected anaphylactic reaction, a spare AAI can be used even without prior consent or diagnosis.
Schools across the UK, including maintained schools, academies, independent schools, and maintained nurseries, can legally purchase spare AAIs. In Northern Ireland, this applies to grant-aided and independent schools.
To obtain spare AAIs, schools should:
- Submit a signed request on headed paper to a pharmacy
- Choose devices based on the brand most commonly prescribed to pupils in the school, usually EpiPen® or Jext®
Guidance recommends that schools:
Have clear allergy policies and emergency procedures, ensure staff receive appropriate allergy and AAI training, regularly check expiry dates, and store spare AAIs in an accessible location known to staff.
Spare AAIs should be stored in a clearly marked and easily accessible location so that staff can respond quickly in an emergency. Delays in administering adrenaline can increase the risk of serious harm.
Under Regulation 238 of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, anyone, including school staff , can administer adrenaline in an emergency to save a life, even without formal medical training. This exemption helps ensure emergency treatment can be given quickly in a life-threatening situation.