Next-Gen Epinephrine Autoinjector Set to Revolutionize Allergy Care

A new collaboration between Thomas Jefferson University and Sempresto, Inc. is set to transform emergency allergy care for millions of individuals with severe allergies. The partnership has resulted in an exclusive licensing agreement that allows Sempresto to develop and commercialize a smartphone-integrated epinephrine autoinjector initially created at Jefferson.

Sempresto, co-founded by Executive Chairman Shawn Marcell and Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Reczek, will spearhead the development and market introduction of this innovative device. Marcell brings extensive experience in biotechnology and medical devices, having successfully raised over $400 million through previous ventures. The technology at the heart of this initiative was developed by Edmund Pribitkin, MD, MBA, FACS, Chief Physician Executive and Executive Vice President at Jefferson Health. Pribitkin will also chair Sempresto’s Scientific Advisory Board, guiding the device’s progress toward commercialization.

Addressing a Critical Need in Allergy Care

The new autoinjector specifically targets a significant barrier in emergency allergy care: timely access to treatment. Research indicates that early administration of epinephrine can significantly lower hospitalization rates and improve survival outcomes. Yet, 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 are often bulky and can easily be forgotten, which exacerbates the problem.

Sempresto’s innovative solution involves a sleek autoinjector that attaches securely to a smartphone case. This design creates a compact, pocket-friendly device that users can carry with them throughout the day. The goal is to eliminate the common obstacles that prevent individuals from carrying epinephrine, making the device a seamless extension of the everyday technology that patients already rely on.

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

Path to Market and Future Prospects

With the licensing agreement secured, Sempresto plans to expedite development as it navigates regulatory pathways and prepares for commercial scale. The company anticipates strong interest from both medical professionals and patients seeking more accessible alternatives to existing autoinjectors.

The introduction of this next-generation device could significantly impact the way severe allergy patients manage their conditions, potentially saving lives by ensuring that epinephrine is always within reach. The collaboration between Jefferson and Sempresto represents a promising advancement in allergy care, one that could ultimately change the landscape of emergency treatment for millions around the world.