A New Era for Allergy Emergencies: Nasal Epinephrine Takes Center Stage

SAN DIEGO, CA – February 10, 2026 – A significant shift in the management of severe allergic reactions is gaining momentum as ARS Pharmaceuticals prepares to showcase a wealth of scientific data on its needle-free epinephrine nasal spray, neffy®, at the upcoming 2026 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting. The presentations aim to solidify the product's position as a revolutionary alternative to traditional epinephrine auto-injectors, highlighting comparable efficacy, favorable economics, and overwhelming patient preference.

For decades, individuals with life-threatening allergies have relied on auto-injectors, a life-saving but often intimidating technology. ARS Pharma is poised to challenge this status quo with neffy, a device designed to deliver a single dose of epinephrine through a simple nasal spray. The company announced it will feature five poster presentations and additional partner data in Philadelphia later this month, detailing clinical advancements that could redefine emergency care for millions.

“We are pleased to share with the broader allergy community at AAAAI a series of new clinical insights showcasing the similarity of neffy 2 mg in exposure as compared to 0.5 mg intramuscular injection, as well as positive pharmacoeconomic data that indicates neffy may be cost effective and preferred by patients over injection products,” said Sarina Tanimoto, MD, PhD, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of ARS Pharma. “These studies reinforce our commitment to delivering an intuitive, affordable, and reliable nasal spray that patients and caregivers can trust in emergency situations.”

Overcoming the Needle Barrier

The most significant barrier neffy aims to dismantle is psychological: the fear of needles. Data has consistently shown that a large percentage of patients and caregivers hesitate or fail to administer epinephrine during an emergency due to needle aversion, anxiety about causing pain, or uncertainty about proper technique. Research indicates that of the 20 million Americans diagnosed and treated for severe Type I allergic reactions, only a fraction consistently carry their prescribed auto-injector, and more than half of those who do still delay or avoid its use when needed.

This hesitation can have fatal consequences in anaphylaxis, where every minute counts. Neffy's core value proposition is its simplicity and needle-free design, which studies suggest could dramatically improve treatment adherence and timeliness. In fact, research being presented at AAAAI indicates that when factoring in patients’ dislike of needle-based administration, the perceived value of a nasal option increased by more than 25%.

Patient advocacy groups have lauded the innovation. Following its FDA approval, Sung Poblete, CEO of Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), stated that the needle-free breakthrough “should make it easier for food allergy patients and those around them to administer epinephrine in the event of an anaphylactic reaction.” This sentiment is echoed by clinicians who see the daily impact of needle phobia.

“The biggest challenge in an emergency is hesitation,” commented one pediatric allergist not involved with the company. “A parent might second-guess themselves, afraid of hurting their child with a needle. A device that removes that fear factor is not just a convenience; it’s a potential life-saver. It empowers teachers, babysitters, and family members to act decisively.”

A Disruptor Enters the Anaphylaxis Market

Beyond its patient-centric design, neffy is positioned as a formidable disruptor in a market long dominated by auto-injector brands like EpiPen and Auvi-Q. ARS Pharmaceuticals has built a strong competitive case based on both clinical performance and practical advantages. The upcoming AAAAI presentations will highlight data showing that the 2 mg dose of neffy provides epinephrine exposure comparable to a standard 0.5 mg intramuscular injection, addressing early questions about the efficacy of nasal delivery.

Furthermore, neffy boasts significant logistical benefits. It has a 24-month shelf life, longer than many auto-injectors, which reduces the frequency and cost of replacements for families. The device is also more robust, capable of withstanding temperature excursions up to 122°F (50°C) and even accidental freezing without losing efficacy. This durability makes it more reliable for people who need to carry it in a backpack, car, or purse.

This combination of features has fueled a rapid global expansion. Following its FDA approval in the U.S. for adults and children weighing 33 lbs or more, neffy has secured market authorization in the European Union (as EURneffy), the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia. In a landmark approval, it became the first community-use epinephrine product available in China, a massive untapped market. Strategic licensing partnerships with companies like ALK-Abelló in Europe and Pediatrix Therapeutics in China signal strong industry confidence in its commercial potential.

The Science and Economics of a Simpler Solution

The data being presented at AAAAI delves into the pharmacoeconomic benefits that make neffy an attractive option for both patients and payers. The longer shelf life directly translates to lower annualized costs. The complete elimination of needles also removes the risk and associated healthcare costs of accidental needle-stick injuries, which occur thousands of times per year with auto-injectors.

To ensure broad access, ARS Pharma has rolled out an aggressive patient support program in the United States. Through its “Get neffy on Us” and co-pay assistance initiatives, many commercially insured patients can acquire the device for as little as $0. A cash price of around $199 for a two-pack is also available, positioning it competitively against the often high out-of-pocket costs of auto-injectors.

This accessibility strategy extends to public health initiatives, such as the “neffyinSchools” program, designed to equip schools with the easier-to-use device. By combining robust clinical data with a clear value proposition, the company is systematically building a case for neffy to become a new standard of care. The presentations at the conference, covering topics from pharmacokinetic comparisons to patient preference and societal value, represent a comprehensive effort to win the confidence of the medical community.

The swift regulatory approvals and market rollout underscore a global recognition of the unmet need for a more user-friendly anaphylaxis treatment. As clinicians and researchers gather in Philadelphia, the conversation will likely center not on if a needle-free option is needed, but on how quickly it can be integrated into practice to better protect the millions of people living with the daily threat of a severe allergic reaction.