The Challenge of Managing Food Allergies
One of the challenges that patients with food allergies face is knowing what to do when an allergic reaction occurs. Often, my patients will first reach for an antihistamine, but many hesitate to use their auto-injectable adrenaline/epinephrine, even when it’s necessary. Fear of needles is a common concern, leading some patients to delay treatment until severe symptoms develop. However, early treatment is crucial to prevent the worsening of symptoms, which can lead to life-threatening situations. Despite my best efforts to educate my patients, the struggle remains real.
Introducing Neffy: A Needle-Free Alternative
The FDA has just announced the approval of a new adrenaline/epinephrine nasal spray designed to treat anaphylaxis—a serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. This innovative option, called Neffy, is suitable for both children and adults who weigh at least 66 pounds (30 kg). Administered as a single dose spray into one nostril, Neffy offers a needle-free alternative to traditional epinephrine injectors. Pretty nifty, right?
Why Neffy is a Game Changer
As a healthcare provider, I welcome this development. Neffy eliminates the need for needles, which I hope will help patients overcome their fears and make it easier to receive the life-saving treatment they need in an emergency.
Neffy’s manufacturer, ARS Pharma, has conducted extensive studies to ensure its effectiveness. In trials with 175 healthy adults, Neffy was shown to achieve blood epinephrine levels comparable to those from a traditional injection, along with similar increases in blood pressure and heart rate. The results were consistent in children weighing more than 66 pounds, making Neffy a reliable option for both age groups.
Who Should Take Precautions?
While Neffy represents a significant advancement, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with the following conditions should consult their healthcare provider before using this spray:
- Certain nasal conditions (e.g., polyps, history of nasal fractures or injuries)
- History of nasal surgery
- Sulfite allergies
Those who do not meet the weight criteria can still rely on their auto-injector.
Availability in Malaysia
At this time, Neffy is not available in Malaysia. However, once it becomes available, you can be sure that The Allergy Immunology Clinic will be one of the first to stock it for our patients. In the meantime, we have EpiPens available for those who need them. Even when EpiPens are unavailable, there’s no need to worry—The Allergy Immunology Clinic is prepared with our self-injectable adrenaline kit, which is convenient and easy to use.
Information you can use
- Neffy is a nasal spray adrenaline/epinephrine designed to treat anaphylaxis.
- Neffy could help many patients who otherwise might delay or avoid using an epinephrine injector.
- Neffy may not be suitable for everyone, Epinephrine injectors are still needed for these individuals.
- Once Neffy is available in Malaysia, we will have it in stock.
- The Allergy Immunology Clinic have Epipens and Self Injectable Adrenaline Kits available for those that need them.
If You Need Help
If you have a food allergy and a history of anaphylaxis, please seek proper evaluation. Allergy and Immunology specialists are trained to manage these conditions, and The Allergy Immunology Clinic is ready to serve your needs.
