A nasal spray for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis has been approved for use in Australia, biotechnology company CSL Seqirus announced today.
It is the first time in 30 years that a new adrenaline treatment for the condition has been approved.
Anaphylaxis is usually associated with throat swelling after exposure to allergens such as food, medications and insect bites and stings.
It can be life threatening if not immediately treated with adrenaline.
In a statement released today, CSL Seqirus, a division of CSL, said a nasal spray called neffy® had been approved for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis in adults and children 15kg+ and aged four years and over.
The company said adrenaline rapidly reversed the effects of anaphylaxis reducing throat swelling, opening the airways, and maintaining heart function and blood pressure.
“Australia has one of the highest documented rates of anaphylaxis hospital admissions in the developed world,” CSL Seqirus said.
“Between 2015 and 2020, Australian public hospitals reported a 51 percent increase in emergency department presentations and a 35 percent increase in hospitalisations due to anaphylaxis.”
Allergist Professor Connie Katelaris said the approval of neffy was the first time in over 30 years that a new way of administering adrenaline had been approved in Australia.
“Anaphylaxis is a difficult condition to manage with some patients reporting challenges,” she said. “neffy has been available for some time overseas and now patients in Australia will have access.”
Health Strategy and Advocacy Manager at Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia Maria Said said in the CSL statement that having a new treatment option which did not require injection would give people at risk of anaphylaxis more choice.
“We know that people have to be extremely mindful of everyday things – such as eating at restaurants, attending social events, travelling or enjoying time outdoors,” she said.
“For parents of children with allergies, normal life experiences need to be planned for, including sleepovers, play dates, parties, air travel and school camps.”
CSL Seqirus Executive Medical Director – International and GP Jonathan Anderson said healthcare organisations were updating their resources and anaphylaxis education to include neffy.
CSL has submitted an application for neffy to be subsidised and listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. The submission will be considered in March 2026.
The company has advised people to follow the neffy instructions carefully and be aware that all medications can have side effects.
For information you can contact CSL Seqirus on 1800 642 865 or visit www.cslseqirus.com.au
