In recent times, parents managing their children’s allergies have been shocked by the soaring prices of EpiPens, produced by the profit-driven pharmaceutical company Mylan. The cost of a two-pack auto-injector has surged to an alarming $608, up from $425 just a year prior. This steep price hike has ignited frustration and fear within the allergy community, prompting discussions among lawmakers about the need for drug pricing reform. Many families are now grappling with the challenge of providing essential, life-saving medication for their children while juggling tight budgets.
However, an inventive solution has emerged from Dr. Emily Carter, an Emergency Medicine Physician at Westside Medical Center in Ohio. She wants parents to know that there’s a far more affordable way to access epinephrine for those in anaphylactic shock—all for less than ten dollars. Yes, you read that right—under $10!
Dr. Carter advocates for using a simple multi-dose vial of epinephrine, which can be obtained for around $6, along with a syringe and an Altoids tin to create a compact emergency kit. “The drastic increase in prices is concerning, especially when parents have to make tough choices between life-saving medications and everyday necessities,” she shared with ABC News. “I purchased this vial for just $5.89, no insurance needed.”
The medication in Mylan’s EpiPen is not unique; it’s essentially just epinephrine. Just like insulin for diabetics, epinephrine can be prescribed in multi-dose vials. Doctors can prescribe this cheaper option along with syringes for patients who need it. Parents and patients can learn how to measure the correct dose based on the patient’s weight and how to administer it with a syringe. The vial, syringe, and an alcohol swab can conveniently fit into an Altoids tin, making it easy to carry.
This solution is so straightforward that it’s frustrating to see how Mylan has managed to charge exorbitant prices. Parents can prepare a preloaded syringe in advance, allowing for quick administration of the medication—just as they would with an EpiPen. Given that many parents are already familiar with giving injections, this alternative is an appealing option, especially considering the potential savings. If you find yourself in this situation, consulting with your healthcare provider to explore this option is definitely advisable.
Most school districts employ registered nurses trained to administer injections, and they can provide this service with a doctor’s order. Just as school nurses handle insulin injections for diabetic students daily, they could also use multi-dose vials in emergency kits, saving the district thousands of dollars annually. Those funds could then be redirected toward educational resources for students.
Hats off to Dr. Carter for providing a viable alternative that could save allergy families a significant amount of money while sending a clear message to Mylan about their pricing practices. Although Mylan has announced a generic version of the EpiPen, it still comes with a hefty price tag of $300 for a two-pack—a far cry from the $6 multi-dose vial. Dr. Carter’s approach highlights that life-saving medication doesn’t have to be exorbitantly priced.
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In summary, there are affordable alternatives to EpiPens that can significantly reduce costs for families dealing with severe allergies. With a few simple tools and guidance from healthcare professionals, parents can ensure that life-saving medication is accessible without breaking the bank.