The Health Minister has launched a consultation process on whether to make a number of prescription-only medicines used in emergency situations more widely available.

The drugs include EpiPens and adrenaline which are used to treat allergic shock; Salbutamol, which treats asthma and COPD; and Glucagon, which is used for the treatment of low blood sugar levels caused by diabetes.

The consultation process will gather views on whether the existing prescription-only arrangements for these medicines should be improved or relaxed.

The medicines can potentially save lives in emergencies, but could be dangerous if used in the wrong circumstances or without training.