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Defective Part Prompts Recall Of 80,000 EpiPens

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Four batches of EpiPens are being recalled because they may fail to activate or require increased force.

According to a statement, about 80,000 EpiPen 300 microgram adrenaline injection auto-injectors are being recalled worldwide.

The recall includes the following batch numbers: 5FA665, 5FA6651, 5FA6652, 5FA6653. The EpiPens were distributed in Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Japan.

To date, there have been two reported cases of the EpiPens failing to work properly.

"The failure of the auto-injector to activate may result in patients not receiving the required dose of adrenaline, resulting in the worsening of symptoms of anaphylaxis or anaphylactic reactions, which could be life-threatening," Mylan-owned Alphapharm said in a statement.

Those with affected devices should return it to their pharmacist, who will provide a replacement for free.

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