Alternatives to Injectable Adrenaline for Treating Anaphylaxis.

Abstract

Adrenaline is the first line treatment for anaphylaxis and adrenaline auto-injectors (AAI) allow reliable, safe and ergonomic administration in the community. However, AAIs have significant limitations and adrenaline is often not used in anaphylaxis. Innovations to administer adrenaline via alternative routes may potentially improve usage rates and treatment effectiveness. Here, we describe the known limitations and barriers to AAI use in anaphylaxis. We then summarise current data for adrenaline devices which use alternative routes of administration for treating anaphylaxis. Several novel devices are in development, which deliver adrenaline via nasal, sublingual or transcutaneous routes. Pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and safety studies have compared these treatments with AAI or intramuscular adrenaline via needle and syringe. The first non-injectable adrenaline delivery device for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis was approved in Europe and the United States. Neffy, an adrenaline nasal spray, is licensed for use in adult and paediatric patients who weigh at least 30 kg. In the near future, multiple alternatives to injectable adrenaline may be available for managing anaphylaxis, overcoming some, but not all of the limitations of AAIs.