🚨 Exciting News for Allergy Sufferers! 🚨 In July 2025, the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved Neffy, a groundbreaking needle-free nasal spray for treating anaphylaxis. This innovative treatment could change the lives of countless individuals at risk of severe allergic reactions.
In the United States, Neffy received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2024, marking a significant advancement in the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. This dual approval in both the UK and USA positions Neffy as an essential tool in allergy management across major markets.
What is Neffy?
Neffy is the first FDA-approved intranasal adrenaline (epinephrine) spray designed for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. In the UK suitable for individuals weighing 30 kg (about 6-7 years old) and older and in the USA it is also made available for children weighing 15kg to 30kg. Neffy offers a welcome alternative for those who fear needles.
Why Neffy is a Game Changer
Anaphylaxis can occur within minutes of allergen exposure, making rapid intervention crucial. Traditional adrenaline auto-injectors (EpiPens) have been widely used, but they come with limitations, such as low prescription fulfillment rates and concerns about using needles. Neffy addresses these issues by providing a simple, non-invasive spray that can be administered quickly and easily.
The Science Behind Neffy
Neffy consists of three FDA-approved components: epinephrine, Intravail A3 (an absorption enhancer), and a Unit Dose Spray (UDS). Its development was guided by extensive clinical trials, confirming its effectiveness and safety in treating severe allergic reactions. Studies have shown that Neffy achieves rapid absorption and activates the body’s adrenergic receptors, crucial for countering anaphylactic symptoms.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Sarah Smith, an allergist at the Royal London Hospital, emphasizes the importance of Neffy: “This approval marks a significant advancement in anaphylaxis management. For patients who fear needles, having a nasal spray option can be life-changing.”
How Neffy Compares to Traditional EpiPens
| Feature | Neffy | EpiPen |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | Intranasal spray | Intramuscular injection |
| Dosage | Single-dose spray | 0.3 mg and 0.15 mg doses |
| User-Friendliness | Easy to use, no needles | Requires training for use |
| Age Group | 30 kg and above | Approved for children and adults |
Benefits of Neffy
- Needle-Free: Reduces the fear associated with injections.
- Rapid Action: Quick absorption for timely treatment during emergencies.
- Longer Shelf Life: Neffy devices have a 30-month lifespan, requiring less frequent replacement compared to auto-injectors.
Considerations
While Neffy offers many advantages, in the UK it is currently approved only for individuals weighing 30 kg and above. Additionally, some users may experience side effects such as throat irritation or nasal discomfort.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The reaction from the allergy community has been overwhelmingly positive. Advocacy groups such as Allergy UK and Anaphylaxis UK have highlighted Neffy’s potential to improve access to emergency care. The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation supports the need for innovative treatments to protect individuals facing severe allergic reactions.
In the USA, the approval of Neffy is particularly significant, as it provides a much-needed alternative to traditional auto-injectors, which have been the primary means of treating anaphylaxis. With the growing awareness of food allergies and related conditions in the U.S., Neffy is expected to play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes.
ARS Pharma is also researching Neffy for other potential uses, including treating sudden flare-ups in patients with chronic urticaria (hives) and currently implementing more clinical trials.
Conclusion
Neffy’s approval is a significant milestone for allergy sufferers in both the UK and USA. By offering a needle-free alternative for administering adrenaline, Neffy addresses critical needs in the allergy community, making it easier for individuals to manage their conditions effectively.
Stay tuned for more updates as Neffy becomes available to help those at risk of anaphylaxis feel safer and more prepared.
References
- Ellis, A., et al. (2024). Development of neffy, an Epinephrine Nasal Spray, for Severe Allergic Reactions. Journal of Pharmaceutics, 16(6), 811. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics16060811. Link
- Dodd, S. et al. (2021). Evidence update for the treatment of anaphylaxis. Journal of Resuscitation, 163, 86–96. doi:10.1016/j.resuscitation.2021.04.010. Link
- Allergy UK. (2025) Anaphylaxis. Retrieved from Allergy UK
- Anaphylaxis UK. (2025). Understanding Anaphylaxis. Retrieved from Anaphylaxis UK
- Natasha Allergy Research Foundation. (n.d.). About Food Allergies. Retrieved from Natasha Allergy Research Foundation
