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                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.2


               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the
Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-xxxx) pertaining to the Meridian
Medical Technologies, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan and to the incorporation by
reference therein of our report dated September 8, 2000, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements and schedule of Meridian Medical Technologies,
Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended July 31, 2000,
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

                                                    /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

McLean, VA
January 25, 2001