Real-World Shelf Life of Epinephrine Auto-Injectors in Canada: Implications for Renewal Frequency and Patient Burden.

Abstract

Although patients in Canada at risk of anaphylaxis are recommended to maintain access to two in-date epinephrine auto-injectors (EAIs) at all times, underuse during emergencies remains common. Multiple factors contribute to this gap, but the impact of real-world shelf life has been understudied. This study examines the remaining in-pharmacy shelf life of EAIs in Canada and considers its potential implications for patient burden, renewal frequency, and anaphylaxis preparedness. In this cross-sectional study, 50 licensed Canadian pharmacists from chain, independent, grocery/mass merchandise, and hospital pharmacies completed an online questionnaire and assessed EAI stock. Participating pharmacists verified all EAI stock on site, including batch numbers and expiry dates, and reported patient disposal practices. Of the 50 participating pharmacists, 49 reported 411 EAI devices across 98 batches. The mean in-pharmacy shelf life at dispensing was 12.8 months, with 47.4% of devices having 12 months or less remaining shelf life. Disposal practices varied and expiry was the most cited reason for disposal. Shortened in-pharmacy shelf life may increase renewal frequency, cost, waste, and the risk that patients carry expired devices or no device during anaphylaxis. Longer-shelf-life epinephrine treatment options or improved distribution chain practices may help reduce patient burden and enhance anaphylaxis preparedness in Canada.