A dispenser with child protection and a method of operating the dispenser. Friction engagement, engagement using leaf springs or rotatable elements, or engagement directly on e.g. blisters on blister packs are used. Also, biasing against an edge portion and displacement of the holding means edge portion is described in order to remove the engagement. Release mechanisms not visible to children are described as well as the use of multiple independent release mechanisms, which makes release more difficult for children.