Epinephrine (Into the nose)

Epinephrine (ep-i-NEF-rin)

Treats severe allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) in an emergency situation. Also treats stuffy nose.

Brand Name(s):

Adrenalin

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine is for use only in the nose. Do not get any of it in your eyes or on your skin. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Before using the medicine, gently blow your nose to clear the nostrils.
• Neffy® nasal spray:
  • Use each nasal spray only one time. Do not test spray or prime the plunger before use.
  • Do not sniff during or after the dose is given. If any liquid drips out of the nose, you may need to give another dose of this medicine.
  • If symptoms continue or get worse, you may need to use more than one nasal spray. It should be given in the same nostril 5 minutes after the first dose.
  • Carry this medicine with you at all times for emergency use in case you have a severe allergic reaction. It is recommended that you carry 2 Neffy® devices.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze. If the spray is frozen and is needed in an emergency, do not wait for the spray to thaw.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how epinephrine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Allergy medicines (including chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine, tripelennamine)
  • Blood pressure medicine (including phentolamine, propranolol)
  • Diuretics (water pill)
  • Ergot medicine
  • Medicine for thyroid problems (including levothyroxine sodium)
  • Medicine to treat depression (including MAO inhibitors, TCAs)
  • Medicine to treat heart rhythm problems (including cardiac glycosides)
  • Medicine to treat Parkinson's disease (including entacapone)
  • Other nasal sprays

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell you doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, diabetes, heart or blood vessel disease, heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, nasal polyps, Parkinson's disease, nasal surgery, or history of injury to the nose.
• This medicine should be given right away in an allergic emergency.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Tremors

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness, headache
• Numbness, tingling, or pain in your gums, mouth, or nose
• Sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, throat irritation
• Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting
• Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 2/4/2025