The Australian Government has listed neffy® adrenaline (epinephrine) nasal spray on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), effective July 1, 2026. This move provides subsidised access to a needle-free emergency treatment for anaphylaxis to eligible adults and children aged four years and older who weigh at least 15 kilograms, helping address rising rates of severe allergic reactions across the country.
Why is the PBS listing significant for allergy management?
The addition of neffy to the PBS provides patients with an alternative to traditional injectable adrenaline, which is the current first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. According to CSL Seqirus Senior Medical Director of Pharmaceuticals Claire Morgan, the subsidy represents a milestone in improving access to essential medicines and offers patients greater choice in how they manage severe allergies.
Professor Connie Katelaris, a leading NSW allergist, notes that while adrenaline remains the first-line emergency treatment for reducing throat swelling and maintaining blood pressure, no single approach works for every patient. By moving the nasal spray from a private prescription model to the PBS, the government is enabling more Australians to select a treatment method that fits their specific medical needs.
How does the new treatment impact daily life for patients?
Living with the threat of anaphylaxis often requires significant planning for daily activities, including dining out, travel, and school attendance. Maria Said, Health Strategy and Advocacy Manager for Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia, explains that the availability of a needle-free option provides families and patients with increased flexibility when discussing treatment preferences with their doctors.
This flexibility is designed to reduce the burden on parents and carers who must coordinate care for children during events like play dates or school excursions. By lowering the cost through the PBS, the government aims to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent patients from accessing their preferred emergency treatment.
What steps are clinicians taking to support this change?
Medical professionals are adapting to the new treatment through updated clinical guidance. Associate Professor Kristina Rueter, Chair of the Anaphylaxis Committee of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA), states that the organization has revised its clinical guidelines, training resources, and education programs to incorporate the nasal spray.
These updates ensure that clinicians have access to practical, evidence-based information regarding the latest anaphylaxis management tools. The initiative highlights a collaborative effort between professional medical bodies, advocacy groups, and government agencies to standardize care for those at risk of severe allergic reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible for the PBS subsidy?
Eligible adults and children aged four years and older who weigh at least 15 kilograms can access the subsidised spray. - Is this the first treatment available for anaphylaxis?
No, adrenaline remains the primary emergency treatment. The nasal spray provides an alternative, needle-free option for those who need it. - Where can I find updated clinical information?
The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) has updated its clinical guidelines and training materials to include information on the nasal spray.
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