Quebec pharmacies struggle to keep up with EpiPen demand after Allerject recall

The demand for epinephrine auto-injectors has quintupled after Sanofi issued a recall for its Allerject devices last week.

Pfizer, the competing company that distributes EpiPenauto-injectors, has been struggling to meet the increasing demand the recall affects all of North America and is creating problems here in Quebec.

• Allerject epinephrine auto-injectors recalled by drugmaker Sanofi

Sanofi said the recall was a precaution because there was a chance that its Allerject devices could provide inaccurate amount of epinephrine.

Epinephrine auto-injectors are used as an emergency treatment by patients who have a history of serious allergic reactions, called anaphylaxis, or who are at risk because of allergies to foods, insect bites and stings, medicines or other substances.

Quebec pharmacies waiting

The unexpected recall has Quebec pharmacies struggling to meet demand.

"The situation as it stands right now is there are no EpiPens in pharmacies as we speak," Bertrand Bolduc, president of the Quebec Order of Pharmacists, told CBC Montreal Daybreak.

"Every time we have a recall like that it is unusual and unscheduled so Pfizer is doing everything they can to get us the devices as soon as possible."

The shortage has left some Quebecerswaiting for EpiPenauto-injectors but they must keep their Allerject devices in the meantime.

"But in the meantime if you can't get an EpiPen you better keep your Allerject," said Bolduc.

In case of an emergency, it is recommended for individuals to take either their EpiPenor Allerjectinjections and to call 9-1-1.

Taking Allerjectis not dangerous because the dose may be toolow but can still be effective,saidDoug Mac, aspecialist in pediatric allergies.

"If you do need to use it, use it," said Mac.