New Nasal Spray a Game Changer for Those with Severe Allergies

Neffy is the first needle-free alternative to the EpiPen

Living with or caring for someone with severe allergies can be nerve-wracking. You always need to be prepared for the possibility of an allergic reaction. The treatment for a life-threatening allergic reaction triggered by certain foods, medication or insect bites, is epinephrine, which is traditionally administered via an auto injector like the EpiPen.

However, on August 9 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Neffy, the first nasal spray to treat anaphylaxis. Neffy is expected to be available to purchase in the United States by the end of 2024.

“Neffy is a new product that we are still learning more about, but hopefully will ease the fears of those who may hesitate before using an auto injector,” says Anil Patel, MD, with Doylestown Health Allergy, Asthma and Arthritis Associates.

What is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening allergic reaction that occurs within minutes of being exposed to something you are allergic to. The allergen causes your body to release chemicals that can send your body into shock. Anaphylaxis can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Some signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Feeling dizzy, lightheaded
• Hives, skin irritation
• Nausea, vomiting
• Swollen airway, tongue

Dr. Patel stresses the importance of immediate treatment of anaphylaxis symptoms. “If you or a loved one suffers from allergies, regardless of how severe they have been in the past, it’s important to be prepared. You should always carry a form of epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis if the need arises,” he says.

How Neffy Works

Neffy is a nasal spray that contains epinephrine. It has been approved to treat anaphylaxis in adults and children who weigh over 66 pounds. Neffy is absorbed in your nasal passage and reverses symptoms of anaphylaxis. A single dose of the medication should be sprayed in your nostril at the first sign of anaphylaxis. A second dose can be given if symptoms don’t improve.

After using Neffy or any form of epinephrine, Dr. Patel says it’s important to seek immediate emergency care. You should also let your healthcare provider know if you had an allergic reaction severe enough that you needed to use Neffy.

Although Dr. Patel says Neffy is an innovative new treatment, he cautions there are risks involved.  Common side effects such as nasal irritation, headache and throat irritation may occur and in rare cases hypertensive crisis.  Clinical studies have been limited thus it would be best to discuss with your healthcare provider to see if Neffy is right for you.

Treating Anaphylaxis

Although Neffy is still new, Dr. Patel says there are reasons to be excited about the treatment option. Neffy offers some advantages such as a longer shelf-life and ease of use than auto injectors. While auto injectors have a shelf life of 12-18 months, Neffy can be kept for up to two years. As a nasal spray, Neffy is also smaller and easier to store and carry.

Meet the Provider

Anil Patel, MD, is an allergist with Doylestown Health’s Asthma, Allergy and Arthritis Associates. He is board certified in Allergy and Immunology and Internal Medicine. Dr. Patel has a special interest in food allergies, asthma, anaphylaxis, and angioedema.

Find an Allergist

If you are looking for an allergist, you can search for one who is right for you in our Find a Provider directory. To learn more about Doylestown Health’s allergy services visit Allergy: Conditions, Testing, & Treatments | Doylestown Health.