Watch: Medical Professionals Discuss EpiPen Alternative
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Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) —In the past seven years the cost of and EpiPen, a quick injection used to treat severe allergic reactions, has skyrocketed from $100 to $600.
Amid outrage over the climbing costs, Mylan announced plans to expand the patient assistance program.
Patricia Fabel with the College of Pharmacy at USC says for many the additional aid isn’t enough and they’ll forego treatment.
She explains, “The fact that it’s so expensive is a huge problem. I’ve seen several patients that just can’t afford it. It’s life saving. It can be in your blood stream in seconds and saving your life within a few seconds.”
According to Fabel there is an option that won’t break the bank. She explains that the epinephrine auto injector offers the same dosage and drug, the only difference is the dispenser.”
The simple changes cut the cost by hundreds.
“Epinephrine auto injector can run you around $150 cash price,” says Fabel.
She adds that prescriptions for the two are not interchangeable, recommending that patients ask their doctors to write a prescription for both products.
Pharmacists can then easily assist in determining which is best based on insurance.
