FDA Extends Some EpiPen Expiration Dates to Fight Shortages (See List)

August 21, 2018

In a move meant to help ease shortages of EpiPen (epinephrine) auto-injectors, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended by 4 months the expiration date of specific lots of 0.3-mg products marketed by Mylan. (Courtesy of Mylan)

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has taken additional action to mitigate shortages of EpiPen (epinephrine) auto-injector by extending the expiration date of specific lots of 0.3 milligram products marketed by Mylan by four months beyond the labeled expiration date.

This change beyond the approved 20-month shelf life is based on stability data provided by Mylan and reviewed by the FDA.

To help ensure patient safety, these products, which already have been dispensed to patients, should have been — and should continue to be — stored as labeled.

While product is currently available, multiple factors, including regional supply disruptions and manufacturer issues, have contributed to EpiPen’s limited availability in certain areas in the U.S.

A complete list of specific batch numbers with original and new expiration dates are provided on the FDA website.

(Learn More. DO NOT INJECT INTO YOUR VEINS, BUTTOCKS, FINGERS, TOES, HANDS OR FEET. Watch a demonstration video on how to use an EpiPen® Auto-Injector properly. Click “Show more” for Indications, Important Safety Information and links to Prescribing Information and Patient Information. Courtesy of EpiPen and YouTube. Posted on Aug 3, 2016.)

The FDA continues to work closely with Mylan on EpiPen production and supply, and also has been in contact with the other manufacturers of epinephrine auto-injectors, including Adrenaclick and Auvi-Q, regarding their supply as the school year begins since this is historically accompanied by increased product demand.

The agency also recently approved the first generic version of EpiPen.

Mylan has established a customer service number, which has been posted on the FDA’s website, to help pharmacies and patients locate EpiPens if necessary.

Information on supply information of other approved epinephrine auto-injector products can also be found on the FDA website.

Janet Woodcock, MD, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research — Janet Woodcock, MD, director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research

“Many patients rely on self-injectable epinephrine products, such as EpiPen, to reverse life-threatening reactions to bee stings or other allergens for either themselves or for their children,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

“We are doing everything we can to help mitigate shortages of these products, especially ahead of the back-to-school season.”

“We’ve completed the necessary reviews of the data to extend the expiration date by four months for specific lots of EpiPen that are expired or close to expiring.”

“We’re hopeful this action will ensure patients have access to this important medication and provide additional peace-of-mind to parents as the agency works with the manufacturer to increase supply.”

“The FDA remains committed to using all of the tools available to help prevent and mitigate drug shortages of medically necessary products used to prevent or treat a serious or life-threatening disease or medical condition.”