EpiPen Cost Soars

The life saving device known as an EpiPen was once just a $100 in 2009 has now jumped to jaw dropping $600.
“Some people have to make a decision to go without the medicine. That should never ever happen,”, said allergist Dr. Susan Raschal.
The EpiPen is most often used by people who suffer from food allergies. Many of those who need the device are children.

Dr. Susan Raschal said the cost of the pen leaves many of her patients in shock.

“The parents break down in tears. I can’t afford this medicine. There is nothing I can do afford this medicine.”

While the cost of the EpiPen has risen, the actual medicine it dispenses is only about $2.

“Yet this device hasn’t changed. The epinephrine hasn’t changed and why is it that the price is continuing to sky rocket”, said Dr. Raschal.

The pharmaceutical company, Mylan, who manufactures the device told CBS News in part…they “have made significant investment to support the device over the past few years.”

“The problem is, if the patient has a high deductible  plan they’ve got to shell out the $600 for two of those auto-injectable Epi Pens. And the EpiPen doesn’t have a generic.”

While the Epipen doesn’t have a generic, there is alternative for those looking for something less expensive.

Dr. Racshal said Adrenaclick is also an epinephrine.

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