US FDA Approves First Nasal Spray for anaphylaxis

Source- This post on US FDA Approves First Nasal Spray for Severe Allergies has been created based on the article “US FDA approves first nasal spray to treat severe allergies: Here’s how it can change treatment” published in “Indian Express” on 21 August 2024.

Why in News?

Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Neffy. It is the first-ever nasal spray designed to treat anaphylaxis, which is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention and an injection of epinephrine. The US FDA has approved the 2 mg version for treatment.

US FDA Approves First Nasal Spray for Severe Allergies

1. It has been designed for the emergency treatment of Type I allergic reactions. This approval is for adults and children weighing at least 30 kg.

2, Impact of FDA Approval: The approval of Neffy could be transformative, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to epinephrine auto-injectors is limited. Neffy also showed comparable effects on increasing blood pressure and heart rate, where both are critical factors in treating anaphylaxis.

3. Benefits for Children: Neffy’s nasal spray format is expected to be particularly beneficial for children, who often fear injections and may struggle with self-administration. It is a simpler, more accessible method of administering life-saving treatment.

Note: Epinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter used to treat allergic reactions, restore cardiac rhythm, and manage conditions such as mucosal congestion, glaucoma, and asthma, making it the only life-saving treatment for anaphylaxis.

About Anaphylaxis

1. Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur rapidly after exposure to an allergen.

2. Symptoms can appear within seconds or minutes of exposure to the allergen, such as peanuts, bee stings, certain foods, some medications, insect venom, or latex.

3. Symptoms:  It includes sudden drop in blood pressure, narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, rapid and weak pulse, skin rash and nausea and vomiting.

4. Immune Response: Anaphylaxis triggers the immune system to release a large amount of chemicals, leading to shock.

5. Treatment: It requires an immediate injection of epinephrine. Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can be fatal. If epinephrine is unavailable, emergency medical care should be sought immediately.

Note: The most common allergens include certain foods like nuts, milk, fish, and specific fruits; medications such as vaccines, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics; and insect venom, particularly from wasp and bee stings.

Status of Anaphylaxis in India

The incidence of anaphylaxis in India is under-reported, partly due to the condition being spread across various medical specialities.

It has been found that food-induced anaphylaxis is becoming more common in India, making Neffy a promising development for the country’s healthcare.

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