New Epinephrine Device Set to Revolutionize Allergy Treatment

A new collaboration between Thomas Jefferson University and Sempresto, Inc. is poised to transform emergency care for individuals suffering from severe allergies. The organizations have entered into an exclusive licensing agreement that allows Sempresto to develop and commercialize a next-generation epinephrine autoinjector, initially created at Jefferson. This innovative device aims to enhance how millions of allergy patients carry and administer vital medication.

Shawn Marcell and Elizabeth Reczek, co-founders of Sempresto, will lead the development and market launch of the device. Their leadership team boasts extensive experience in biotechnology, medical devices, and venture growth. Notably, Marcell has successfully raised over $400 million in previous ventures. The technology at the core of this agreement was developed by Edmund Pribitkin, MD, MBA, FACS, who serves as Chief Physician Executive and Executive Vice President at Jefferson Health. Pribitkin will also chair the Scientific Advisory Board at Sempresto as the device progresses toward commercialization.

Addressing Key Challenges in Allergy Care

The new autoinjector is designed to tackle a significant issue in emergency allergy treatment: the lack of access to epinephrine when it is most needed. Research indicates that early administration of epinephrine is linked to lower hospitalization rates and improved survival outcomes. Alarmingly, studies reveal that nearly two-thirds of severe allergy patients arriving at emergency departments have not used an autoinjector prior to their visit.

Traditional epinephrine devices can often be bulky, inconvenient, or simply forgotten. In contrast, Sempresto’s innovative solution securely attaches to a smartphone case, resulting in a slim and portable autoinjector intended to accompany users throughout their daily activities. The primary objective is to eliminate the common barriers that prevent individuals from carrying epinephrine and to seamlessly integrate the device into the everyday technology that patients already utilize.

Pribitkin expressed optimism about the device’s potential, stating, “Our goal is to ensure that no patient ever finds themselves without access to epinephrine in a moment of need. This sleek and convenient design has the potential to redefine emergency preparedness for severe allergy sufferers.”

Pathway to Commercialization

With the licensing agreement finalized, Sempresto is set to accelerate the development of the new autoinjector. The company plans to pursue regulatory pathways and aims for commercial scalability in the near future. There is a growing expectation of significant interest from both clinicians and patients who are seeking more accessible alternatives to existing autoinjectors.

As Sempresto prepares to bring this groundbreaking device to market, the partnership with Thomas Jefferson University underscores a commitment to enhancing healthcare solutions for those living with severe allergies. The integration of such technology into everyday items could ultimately change the landscape of allergy treatment, making life-saving medication more accessible than ever before.