The US Food and Drug administration recently approved Neffy, an epinephrine nasal spray, for the treatment of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis in adult and pediatric patients weighing at least 66 lbs (30 kg). This is the first epinephrine product approved that no longer requires an injection to administer the medication.
Early treatment of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis with epinephrine is important to prevent more serious and dangerous outcomes. For some patients, there is a delay in treatment due to the fear of using an injection, and when it comes to anaphylaxis, time is of the essence. Having the option to use an epinephrine nasal spray may reduce this fear barrier and provide earlier treatment for a patient who needs it.
Neffy was approved by the FDA after review of 4 trials of 175 adults without anaphylaxis, and showed that blood concentration of nasal epinephrine verses the injectable epinephrine products were similar. Side effects were similar with the two products but Neffy causes throat and nose irritation. Neffy uses Intravail® technology, which temporarily opens the spaces between the nasal cells to help epinephrine absorption into the body, so patients with a history of structural nasal disease and polyps should discuss with the provider if this is the best treatment.
Neffy comes as a single-dose nasal spray that is administered into one nostril. If symptoms are not improving or worsening, a second dose is available to use (similar to a 2-pack of epinephrine autoinjectors). Emergency medical attention may be needed after the use of Neffy. Book an appointment with one of our allergists to find out if a prescription of Neffy is right for you.
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