Nashville, Tennessee (WSMV/Gray News) – For the first time in more than 100 years, an alternative to the EpiPen has been approved by the FDA.
The drug arrived in Tennessee in recent weeks, and doctors are now eager to get the word out.
Sidney Nolan, a teacher in Nashville, described some of the challenges that come with working with children.
“Germs,” Nolan said. “Their germs, they touch me with their germs, somebody gets hurt, they’re emotional.”
For Nolan, who is allergic to mango, peach and cantaloupe, the constant contact in the classroom creates an additional risk.
She has been carrying an EpiPen auto-injector since she was 7 years old. I had to use it once and it gave me a rash.
Until now, EpiPens were the only option for people like Nolan who faced the threat of anaphylaxis.
Mount Juliet allergist Dr. Wesley Cain said the new product, called Nephy, is a nasal spray version of the EpiPen designed for people weighing 60 pounds or more.
It’s the same drug, but smaller, cheaper and lasts longer, Kane said. Perhaps one of the most important differences is the lack of needles.
According to 2023 pharmacy claims data, only half of all prescriptions written for injection pens were actually filled.
Of those who actually filled a prescription, only half carried it with them, as many were afraid to actually use it.
“You know, we often hear about people showing up to the ER with an EpiPen in hand and wanting the ER to give them the shot instead of giving it themselves,” Cain said.
Delays can be fatal. Cain said he hopes the new option will save more lives.
“Everyone seems really excited,” Cain said.
Nolan said she is excited about the new options and looks forward to the day Nephie can be used on young children.
The drugmaker said it is considering making this option available to children next.
“That would save a lot of stress,” Nolan said. “I would rather just give them a little nasal spray and think that’s enough.”
Anyone interested in Nephi should contact their allergist or pediatrician. You can also order from pharmacies that currently do not carry it.
Self-pay assistance cards are also available at the following sites: Nephi’s website.
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