Option for Epinephrine on the Fast Track!

 

 

 Isn't it crazy that we are still using the same delivery device for epinephrine?

Auto injectors.

Can't they develop a new way for us to get epinephrine?

There are two options in the works. One is an oral film, and one is a nose spray.

Oral Film 

The oral film just received "Fast Track" designation from the FDA. 

 A press release says:

"U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track designation to AQST-109, the first and only orally delivered epinephrine-based product candidate for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis."

The film will be about the size of a postage stamp and will go under the tongue. It will dissolve immediately (no water needed, and it doesn't need to be swallowed.)

How cool is that?

I don't know about you, but carrying a twin pack of auto-injectors is a pain. I have to carry a large purse for my auto-injectors, inhaler and spacer, plus the assorted mom things (gum, bandaids, tissues, lip balm, etc.)

This epinephrine film will have a holder the size of a credit card. That would be a lot easier to carry around. Especially for students, who won't carry their auto-injectors.

Another option is also in the works.

Nasal Spray

An epinephrine nose spray is awaiting FDA approval. Fast Track designation was granted in 2019, but it's still not on the market. It is hoped to come out in summer of 2023.

I would gladly trade my auto-injectors for another option!