Survey data highlight challenges in anaphylaxis treatment adherence
pharmafile | June 11, 2026 | News story | | European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), anaphylaxis
New survey data presented at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress suggest many people at risk of anaphylaxis do not consistently carry or use prescribed emergency adrenaline treatment, highlighting ongoing challenges in real-world disease management.
The findings were presented by ALK and examined attitudes among patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) across Canada, France, Germany and the UK.
In a survey of 1,238 adults at risk of severe anaphylaxis, nearly 40% reported not regularly carrying their prescribed adrenaline auto-injector (AAI), while 54% said they had been without it when needed. Around one in five respondents had never filled their prescription.
The research also evaluated a needle-free adrenaline-based product administered as a nasal spray. Participants in a preference study consistently favoured the needle-free product over AAIs, particularly among those who did not routinely carry their prescribed treatment.
A separate survey involving 122 HCPs suggested only around half of patients consistently carry their prescribed AAI. Adolescents were perceived to have the lowest adherence rates.
Professor Margitta Worm of Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin said: “These findings highlight a real opportunity to re-evaluate emergency treatment options and explore whether needle-free alternatives can improve preparedness, confidence and adherence in real-world settings.”
Additional simulated-use studies found participants reported greater confidence and lower anxiety when using the needle-free product and indicated they would administer treatment at an earlier stage of symptom progression than with an AAI.
The findings suggest behavioural barriers, including forgetfulness, uncertainty and reluctance to act, continue to affect emergency treatment use among people at risk of anaphylaxis.
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