First Needle-Free Epinephrine Nasal Spray Now Available Nationwide
“Pharmacies are processing prescriptions, our supply chain is fully operational, and most importantly, the first patients are now receiving neffy,” said Eric Karas, CCO of ARS Pharmaceuticals.
The first needle-free epinephrine nasal spray (neffy) is now available to patients and caregivers by prescription across the US, according to a news release by developer ARS Pharmaceuticals.1 The launch follows last month’s FDA approval of epinephrine nasal spray for the emergency treatment of type I allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in adults and children who weigh at least 66 pounds.2
Nasal spray / PixieMe - stock.adobe.com
FDA approval made neffy the first and only needle-free epinephrine alternative and the first new delivery method for epinephrine in over 3 decades.3 Now that its available, ARS Pharmaceuticals is implementing several savings program to ensure widespread access:
- Eligible and commercially insured patients can receive 2 single-use neffy devices for $25 through ARS Pharmaceuticals’ co-pay savings program, available through neffyConnect and in partnership with BlinkRx.
- For uninsured patients or those with limited coverage, ARS Pharmaceuticals is offering a cash price of $199 for 2 single-use neffy devices.
- For patients who qualify for ARS Pharmaceuticals’ Patient Assistance Program, neffy will be available free of charge.
The company is also offering a $25 co-pay savings card at neffy.com for use at participating pharmacies.1
“The introduction of neffy as the first and only needle-free treatment option for patients and caregivers living with severe allergic reactions marks a turning point for ARS Pharmaceuticals and the severe allergy community. Since approval, we have been partnering with health care providers, payers, and patient advocates to ensure access for patients,” said Eric Karas, CCO of ARS Pharmaceuticals, in the same release.1 “Pharmacies are processing prescriptions, our supply chain is fully operational, and most importantly, the first patients are now receving neffy.”
In addition to scheduling an appointment with a health care provider to obtain a prescription for epinephrine nasal spray, patients can request the medicine through their existing health care provider or via a virtual consultation with a licensed physician at the product’s website.
ARS Pharmaceuticals is also offering patients free carrying cases that hold 2 single-use neffy devices with instructions for use.
READ MORE: FDA Approves First Needle-Free Epinephrine Nasal Spray
The FDA’s approval of epinephrine nasal spray is supported by 4 studies in 175 healthy adults without anaphylaxis that compared the nasal spray to traditional injectable epinephrine products.2 These studies measured epinephrine concentrations in the blood after administration, finding that the nasal spray delivered comparable amounts of epinephrine. Moreover, the nasal spray effectively raised blood pressure and heart rate, 2 crucial responses for treating anaphylaxis.
The availability of a needle-free alternative to administering epinephrine represents a solution for individuals living with severe allergic reactions who fear needles or struggle with injections. By eliminating the risk of needle-related injuries and reducing the bulk of traditional epinephrine products, the nasal spray provides a safe and convenient treatment option to patients.
“Epinephrine auto-injectors have needles, and this can be intimidating for patients. This can lead to hesitancy in carrying and in using the life-saving devices, and often results in patients failing to treat before seeking emergency medical assistance,” said Carlos Camargo, MD, DrPH, professor of emergency medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, in the release.1 “neffy provides a fast, easy-to-carry, easy-to-administer alternative that we anticipate will result in more people carrying their epinephrine device and treating their allergic event earlier. These changes are likely to lead to better clinical outcomes and less need for emergency room visits.”
Following the European Commission’s approval of EURneffy on August 22, 2024, ARS Pharmaceuticals plans to expand global access to its epinephrine nasal spray in partnership with an EU-based pharmaceutical partner.1
READ MORE: Allergy Resource Center
