Users of so-called Epi-Pens, used to treat people suffering extreme allergic reactions, have been asked not to order more than they actually need.

The advice to users of EpiPen and EpiPen Junior comes in the wake of a continuing shortage of the devices globally following a manufacturing delay.

With the shortage likely to persist for some months, repeat prescriptions of the devices, which deliver a shot of adrenaline to anyone suffering an extreme allergic reaction, are to be monitored.

A government statement said this was to ensure limited supplies were available to anyone needing them and the situation could be exacerbated if people started panicking and stockpiling them.

The statement confirmed some EpiPens can be used beyond their labelled expiry dates for a period of four months. These pens have expiry dates between July 2018 and November 2018 and are listed in the table available via the following link: https://www.gov.im/media/1363144/epipens-uk-dhsc-oct-18.pdf

Patients are also advised always to use an out-of-date EpiPen rather than no EpiPen - it cannot do any harm. So the advice is not to throw away an expired device until it has been replaced.

Parents should consider having their child assessed by a doctor as it will be appropriate for some children to use any adult dose pen.

Different brands of preloaded injection pens are available from other suppliers, but are not used in exactly the same way. GPs and pharmacists will ensure patients switched to different devices are trained in how to use them.

Over the next few days, the Department of Health and Social Care’s pharmacy team will establish the number and types of devices available at island chemist shops. GPs will then be advised where stocks are available.

The latest advice from the UK has also been given to parents and guardians of Isle of Man school pupils.

Suppliers of alternative adrenaline auto-injectors are working to meet increasing demand for all stocks and the situation is being closely monitored by the Manx Government.