‘Matter of life or death’: Panic over epi-pen shortage

Parents of severely allergic children are desperately searching for life-saving junior epi-pens as supplies dwindle.

A month long national shortage has left families in a panic.

One Melbourne mum, Demi Andricopolous, requires epi-pens for both of her children.

Her daughter’s has expired and she may have to drive to Shepparton to buy one. She’s searched numerous pharmacies in Melbourne, but the only one she can find is three hours away.

“If I have to, then I have to, I have no other choice,” she said.

Neil Mitchell said it was an “absurd” situation.

Chemist Warehouse director Damien Gance explained it was a supply issue with epi-pens, and particularly the junior epi-pens.

“We’ve been told without great certainty they expect stock in the wholesalers next week,” he said.

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