From the reading room · 07 Jan 2026
Needle-Free Adrenaline
By Nick Buete
Anaphylaxis Awareness and a New Option: Intranasal Adrenaline (Neffy)
Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapid-onset allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. In Australia, it affects people of all ages and can be triggered by foods (such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish and eggs), insect stings, medicines, or latex. Prompt recognition and immediate access to adrenaline are critical to improving outcomes.
At Gardens Pharmacy, we regularly support patients and families living with severe allergies. Awareness, preparation, and having a clear anaphylaxis action plan remain the cornerstones of safe management.
Recognising anaphylaxis and acting quickly
Anaphylaxis can involve multiple body systems and may include:
Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
Swelling of the tongue or throat
Persistent cough, hoarse voice, or trouble speaking
Dizziness, collapse, or loss of consciousness
Widespread hives, flushing, or swelling
Symptoms can escalate quickly. Adrenaline is the first-line treatment and should be given without delay when anaphylaxis is suspected. Waiting to “see if it settles” can be dangerous.
Why an anaphylaxis action plan matters
An individualised anaphylaxis action plan helps ensure the right steps are taken under pressure. A good plan:
Clearly outlines when and how to give adrenaline
Is easy for carers, schools, workplaces, and bystanders to follow
Is reviewed regularly with a healthcare professional
Is kept accessible alongside the patient’s adrenaline device
Education and rehearsal are just as important as the device itself.
Introducing Neffy: intranasal adrenaline
A new option for adrenaline administration, Neffy, delivers adrenaline as a nasal spray rather than an injection. This represents an important development for some patients and carers, particularly where needle use is a barrier.
Key points about intranasal adrenaline:
Designed for rapid administration via the nose
Needle-free, which may reduce hesitation in an emergency
Intended for use as part of a broader anaphylaxis management plan
Must be used exactly as directed by a healthcare professional
It’s important to note that not all patients will be suitable for intranasal adrenaline. Your doctor or allergy specialist will assess whether Neffy is appropriate based on age, medical history, allergy profile, and individual circumstances.
The role of your pharmacist
Pharmacists play a vital role in:
Reinforcing early recognition of anaphylaxis
Educating patients and carers on correct device use
Ensuring action plans are current and understood
Supporting adherence and safe storage of adrenaline products
If you or someone you care for has been prescribed Neffy, we recommend a one-on-one discussion with your pharmacist to go through when to use it, how to use it, and what to do next.
Accessing the Gardens anaphylaxis action plan (Neffy)
To support patients prescribed intranasal adrenaline, we have a link to a Neffy-specific anaphylaxis action plan.
👉 Access the action plan here:
https://gardenspharmacy.com.au/documents/anaphylaxis-neffy-2026
We encourage patients, families, schools, and carers to review this document together and keep a copy readily available.
In summary
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency requiring immediate action
Adrenaline remains the first-line treatment
Having a clear, accessible action plan saves lives
Neffy offers a new, needle-free option for selected patients
Ongoing education and review with your healthcare team are essential
This article is intended for general information only and does not replace individual medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional for personalised guidance.