FDA Approves First Nasal Spray to Treat Anaphylaxis

On Friday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved neffy, a nasal spray for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylactic shock. The spray is approved for use in adults and children who weigh at least 66 pounds (30 kilograms). It was greenlighted through one of the FDA’s drug expedition processes. Anaphylaxis occurs when the body goes into shock from a massive allergic reaction. Blood pressure rapidly drops, heart rate increases, airways constrict, and swelling can occur in the upper airways—all of which can potentially lead to death. Epinephrine, which reverses most anaphylactic symptoms by increasing blood pressure, opening the airways, and reducing swelling, is the first-line treatment for this condition....