FDA Approves neffy® for Emergency Treatment of Allergic Reactions

August 14, 2024
Anaphylaxis, Health News, Severe Allergies

Here’s what you need to know

NEWS: On August 9, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved neffy® (epinephrine nasal spray) for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type I), including those that are life threatening (anaphylaxis), in adult and pediatric patients who weigh at least 30 kilograms (about 66 pounds). See FDA announcement.

What this means: It is the first nasal spray alternative to EPIPEN®, and the first needle-free option used for emergency, severe allergic reactions.

What it’s designed to do: neffy is a nasal spray that contains epinephrine, which is intended to treat a severe allergic reaction including anaphylaxis, in adults and children who weigh at least 30kg (about 66 pounds).

Why use it: It’s a smaller device that is easier to transport and since it is needle free, it may be more likely to be used.

How it works: Similar to the way epinephrine injections work, neffy activates the alpha and beta receptors to constrict blood vessels to maintain blood pressure and heart function and relax smooth muscles in the airways of the lungs to help relieve shortness of breath and wheezing.

Made by: ARS Pharmaceuticals

Chestnut Hill Allergy & Asthma

Dr. Manav Segal, of Chestnut Hill Allergy & Asthma Associates, is a leading Philadelphia-area allergist and immunologist who treats asthma and allergies in children and adults and provides breakthrough Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) to treat severe food allergies. Dr. Segal is Board certified by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and the American Board of Internal Medicine, and is Chief of Allergy & Immunology at Chestnut Hill Hospital.