New Nasal Spray Allergen Treatment Offers Hope for Anaphylaxis Sufferers

For individuals with life-threatening allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector has long been a crucial safety measure. However, the discomfort of injections, fear of using the device, and high costs have posed significant hurdles for many. Now, there’s a new option offering hope: Neffy, a nasal spray version of epinephrine.

Sidney Nolan, a Nashville teacher allergic to mangoes, peaches, and cantaloupe, knows the challenges of managing severe allergies firsthand. “Germs,” she said. “Their germs, them touching me with their germs, somebody getting hurt, they’re emotional.” Constant contact with young students amplifies her risk, making her reliance on an epinephrine auto-injector a constant source of anxiety. She has carried it since age 7, enduring a rash after the only time she had to use it.

While Neffy isn’t yet approved for children, the drugmaker plans to expand its use for younger patients soon, a welcome prospect for Nolan. “That will relieve a lot of stress,” she said. “I’d rather just give them some nose spray and that’d be all.”

Dr. Wesley Cain, a Mt Juliet allergist, shares Nolan’s optimism.

“Everybody seems to be super excited about it,” he said.

Neffy’s arrival marks a long-awaited advancement in allergen management. Until now, epinephrine auto-injectors were the only FDA-approved treatment for anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. But their practicality has been hindered by several factors. Data from 2023 pharmacy claims shows that only half of the prescribed auto-injectors were filled, and even fewer were consistently carried by patients.

“You know, we hear stories all the time where people show up to the E.R. with their Epi-pen in hand wanting the E.R. to inject it rather than them doing it themselves,” Cain explained.

This fear of using the injector can have deadly consequences, delaying crucial treatment.

Neffy addresses these concerns head-on. As a needle-free nasal spray, it offers a less intimidating and more convenient alternative. “It is the same drug, but smaller, cheaper and longer lasting. Maybe one of the most important differences is the lack of needles,” Cain explained.

The nasal spray delivers epinephrine directly to the bloodstream through a simple, familiar method. For those prone to anxiety or struggling with the logistics of carrying and using auto-injectors, Neffy offers a reassuring alternative.

Anaphylaxis can present a terrifying ordeal for those who experience it and their loved ones. The prompt administration of epinephrine is critical for a positive outcome, and Neffy could prove to be a game-changer in terms of accessibility, ease of use, and ultimately, saving lives.

Those interested in learning more about Neffy should contact their allergist or pediatrician. Pharmacies that do not currently carry it can place an order. Co-pay assistance cards are available on Neffy’s website.

How effective is‌ the nasal spray delivery method ‍of Neffy compared to traditional​ epinephrine auto-injectors?

## New Hope⁣ for ​Allergies: ⁣A Needle-Free‍ Option?

**Interviewer:**‍ Welcome to the⁤ show, Dr. Cain. We’re⁣ here today to discuss ⁤a potential game-changer⁣ for ‍people with severe ‍allergies – Neffy, a nasal ⁤spray epinephrine. First, can you⁣ tell‍ us ⁤a bit about why this is such a ​significant development?

**Dr. Cain:** Absolutely. For years,‍ epinephrine auto-injectors, like EpiPens, have been⁤ the ​gold standard for treating life-threatening allergic reactions. However,⁣ many people, both​ adults and children, find them intimidating to use, and the injection itself⁤ can be painful‌ and anxiety-inducing. Neffy offers a needle-free alternative, which is a huge step forward. [ [1](https://www.cnn.com/2024/08/09/health/neffy-nasal-spray-allergic-reactions/index.html)]

**Interviewer:** ‌We​ spoke to Sidney⁢ Nolan, a teacher with severe allergies to fruits like mangoes and‌ peaches. She told us​ about the constant ⁢worry of a⁣ reaction, especially around young children. How could Neffy potentially ‌improve the lives ‌of ⁣people like Sidney?

**Dr. Cain:**‍ Sidney’s story is so common. ⁤The fear and anxiety around using auto-injectors ‍can be debilitating. ⁢Neffy ‍could ⁤offer a less stressful ⁤solution, especially for those‌ who find injections difficult. Sidney⁤ mentions the prospect of using the nasal ‌spray on children, ⁢which is ‍incredibly promising. That expanded‌ approval could make a world of difference for families.

**Interviewer:** What are some of the challenges that could arise with Neffy? Some might⁢ say a nasal spray ​may not be⁣ as effective as⁢ injection.

**Dr. Cain:** Great question.⁢ Research has shown Neffy to be effective in treating anaphylaxis, and while further study is always ongoing, initial results are promising. It’s​ important to remember that every individual reacts differently to medication, and it’s ⁤crucial to follow medical advice and⁢ dosage instructions carefully.

**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for joining us today,⁢ Dr. Cain.‌ It ‌seems‌ Neffy offers tremendous hope for individuals‌ with severe allergies, potentially⁣ changing⁤ how we‍ manage‌ this serious condition.

**Dr. Cain:** My pleasure. ​I’m hopeful‍ that Neffy will make a⁢ positive impact on the lives of many people struggling with allergies.