Epinephrine Auto-Injector Law

Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-140-502

Background

Epinephrine is a medication that may be used to treat severe allergic reactions. The use of an epinephrine auto-injector can be life-saving in certain medical emergencies. Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-140-502 authorizes certain entities to stock epinephrine auto-injectors on their premises and authorizes certain individuals to provide or administer an epinephrine auto-injector under certain circumstances. Below is information on TDH-approved training for the use of epinephrine auto-injectors and an online form for reporting.

Training Requirements and Resources

The law requires that designated individuals be trained on recognizing signs and symptoms of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis; standards and procedures for the storage and administration of an epinephrine auto-injector; and emergency follow-up procedures before providing the treatment. The training must be repeated at least every two years. The authorized entity should maintain documentation on training completion for designated persons. Training can be provided by “a nationally recognized organization experienced in training laypersons in emergency health treatment” or through an organization, person, or program approved by the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH). Authorized entities should select the training option that matches the manufacturer of the product to be utilized at their specific site.

These training materials have been approved by TDH:

Code Ana

  • Code Ana’s Epinephrine Training Program teaches learners how to prevent, recognize, and respond to anaphylaxis, including how to use an epinephrine auto-injector. 
  • Code Ana also offers Code Ana’s School Program, which guides schools through assessing and then optimizing their own medical preparedness through the development and implementation of their own unique, practiced, medical emergency response plans. Learn more about these programs at www.CodeAna.org.

Mylan Training Course

LifeReach, LLC

Reporting Requirements

Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-140-502 requires that authorized entities report to TDH each time that an epinephrine auto-injector is used as specified in this law.  Entities should use this online reporting form to report incidents of undesignated epinephrine use within seven days of the occurrence.