1
Exhibit 23.1


                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements
(Form S-3 No. 333-18279; Form S-8 Nos. 333-54782, 333-54780, 333-32498,
33-46981, 33-34045, 33-26681 and 2-80908) and in the related prospectuses of
Meridian Medical Technologies, Inc. or its predecessor, Survival Technology,
Inc. of our report dated September 10, 2001, with respect to the consolidated
financial statements and schedule of Meridian Medical Technologies, Inc.
included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended July 31, 2001.


                                                       /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

McLean, VA
September 28, 2001