Allergy UK Welcomes Needle-Free Emergency Adrenaline Treatment for Anaphylaxis

The launch of a needle-free emergency treatment for anaphylaxis called EURneffy and available on the NHS from today (Monday, October 20), has been welcomed by Allergy UK.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that usually occurs rapidly and requires immediate treatment with adrenaline. Lives are lost each year due to delays in administering adrenaline or uncertainty about how to respond to the emergency.

EURneffy is non-invasive and needle-free. It works by spraying a dose of adrenaline into one nostril. A second dose may be needed.

Anyone at risk of anaphylaxis will welcome the option of a nasal spray which is easy to store, isn’t affected by high temperatures, has a long shelf life and is relatively small.

Amena Warner, Head of Clinical Services at Allergy UK, said:

“Moments matter. EURneffy has the potential to be a game-changer for people who manage severe allergies, helping reduce hesitancy about giving themselves or someone else adrenaline which could, in turn, save lives.

The needle-free option will appeal to people who are reluctant to use adrenaline auto-injector devices if they are hesitant to use a needle.

Until now, the only available treatment for people living at risk of severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis has been an injectable form delivered by an adrenaline auto-injector device (AAI), which gives a dose of adrenaline into the thigh muscle.

Some young people have been reluctant to carry auto-injector devices because they find them bulky. This concerning for healthcare professionals and parents alike as it increases the risk of a delay in potentially lifesaving treatment.”

EURneffy is licensed for use in children and adults who weigh over 30kg (about 66 pounds). It contains the active substance adrenaline (also known as epinephrine).  It is already used in the US where it is known as Neffy.