For 26-year-old Austin Tattersall, leaving his home in Victoria is never a simple task. Each departure requires a check of his essential companion: two EpiPen devices. These autoinjectors are vital for Tattersall, who lives with severe food allergies, also known as anaphylaxis. “They’ve never really changed since I was a child,” he shared, noting that his main allergens include eggs, nuts, and dairy.
Despite the severity of his condition, Tattersall has been fortunate not to have needed his EpiPen recently, attributing his safety to extreme vigilance around food. This caution was instilled in him from a young age, with his parents using separate cookware for his meals. Now responsible for his own food, he meticulously checks labels and avoids pre-made meals to prevent any chance of an allergic reaction.
Life with Anaphylaxis: Precautions and Challenges
Tattersall’s friends and family are well-versed in his allergies, ensuring they avoid cross-contamination and do not share food with him. When dining out, he prefers familiar restaurants and often calls ahead to confirm they can accommodate his dietary needs. “I’ll wait until I get home. I’m not going to take the risk,” he says, emphasizing his cautious approach.
Being a “very sporty person” and a student of sports science and nutrition, Tattersall is particularly mindful of his diet. He cooks his own meals, focusing on healthier options and ensuring he knows exactly what he is consuming. This attention to detail is crucial given the potential severity of anaphylactic reactions.
New Treatment Options: A Nasal Spray Alternative
Recently, a new treatment option has emerged for those with anaphylaxis. Neffy, an adrenaline-based nasal spray, has been registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and is now available in Australian pharmacies with a private prescription. This development offers an alternative to the traditional EpiPen, which requires an injection.
According to Professor Mimi Tang, an immunologist at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Australia has one of the highest rates of allergy problems in the developed world. “They have been increasing for several decades and they continue to increase,” she noted, highlighting the importance of education in managing severe allergic reactions.
“Education is absolutely critical,” Tang emphasized. “We need to be sure that our patients understand how to recognize a severe reaction, how to manage it, and what to do after treatment in the community setting.”
Implications of the New Nasal Spray
Maria Said AM, Health Strategy and Advocacy Manager at Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia, believes that having a non-injection option will provide more choice for those at risk of anaphylaxis. “It will offer people at risk of anaphylaxis, and their treating doctor, the ability to choose an adrenaline device that best suits their needs,” she said.
Dr. Nick Coatsworth, speaking on the Today show, expects the nasal spray to be popular with children and noted its effectiveness is comparable to auto-injected adrenaline. However, he stressed the importance of proper education on its use.
While Tattersall is intrigued by the new treatment, he remains attached to his EpiPens, citing comfort in their familiarity. “I think it’s good that there’s something else on the market,” he said, considering a discussion with his GP to explore whether neffy might be suitable for him.
Cost and Accessibility
Currently, neffy is not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), but a submission is set for consideration in March 2026. Until then, the cost of neffy is approximately $97 per nasal spray on a private prescription, with prices varying by pharmacy. In contrast, EpiPens can be purchased over the counter for $80 to $120, or for $25 with a PBS prescription.
As the availability of alternative treatments like neffy expands, individuals with anaphylaxis have more options to manage their condition. However, the decision to switch from a trusted device like the EpiPen involves careful consideration and consultation with healthcare professionals.
The information in this article is general in nature. Please consult your GP or other healthcare professional for advice tailored to your specific health needs.
