Costco, CVS, Healthwarehouse.com, and Walgreens all confirmed to Consumer Reports that EpiPens
Epinephrine autoinjector
An epinephrine autoinjector is a medical device for injecting a measured dose or doses of epinephrine by means of autoinjector technology. It is most often used for the treatment of anaphylaxis. The first epinephrine autoinjector was brought to market in the 1980s.
Epinephrine
This medication is used in emergencies to treat very serious allergic reactions to insect stings/bites, foods, drugs, or other substances.
Full Answer
Is there a generic version of the EpiPen?
Teva’s generic version of the EpiPen costs about the same as Mylan’s generic. At that price, it might not make sense for someone who has already been trained to use an EpiPen to switch to a new autoinjector with different instructions– unless the EpiPen and Mylan generic are both unavailable locally due to Mylan’s ongoing shortage issues.
What is an EpiPen Jr?
Epinephrine ( EpiPen, EpiPen Jr, Adrenaclick, Auvi-Q, Symjepi, or generic versions of the epinephrine auto-injector) is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is the man-made version of adrenaline, a natural hormone substance the body releases in response to stress, and it is classified as a catecholamine.
When do EpiPens expire?
On June 5, 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the extension of the expiration dates by four months of all lots of EpiPen 0.3 mg Auto-Injectors and its authorized generic version currently on the market in the U.S. This announcement is based on a careful review of product stability data provided by Pfizer.
What is EpiPen (epinephrine)?
EpiPen, also known by its generic name as epinephrine, is a prescription-only brand name medication made by Mylan. EpiPen was initially approved in 1989, but its active ingredient, epinephrine was first synthesized in 1906.
Can you get an EpiPen over the counter?
Is EpiPen Available Without a Prescription? (OTC) In the U.S., you cannot buy EpiPen unless you have a prescription from your doctor. Some schools do stock the product for emergency use, but use in that setting would still be under the direction of a health care provider.
Does Walgreens have EpiPens?
DEERFIELD, Ill. & RICHMOND, Va., July 11, 2019 - Walgreens and kaléo, a privately-held pharmaceutical company, today announced AUVI-q® (epinephrine injection, USP) 0.1 mg auto-injector is available at Walgreens locations nationwide.
Why are EpiPens out of stock?
In early May 2018, the FDA first declared a national shortage of Mylan's EpiPen, EpiPen Jr and the equivalent generic devices, citing “manufacturing delays” at the Pfizer Inc. facility in Missouri that produces the epinephrine devices.
Can I get an EpiPen for free?
And, there are some who could get EpiPen for free: Mylan offers free EpiPens through its patient assistance program for uninsured and underinsured patients with a household income of less than $97,400 for a family of four.
What is an alternative to EpiPen?
Adrenaclick – Sold at every CVS Pharmacy, this authorized generic epinephrine auto-injector consists of the same active ingredients as EpiPen in the exact dosage. A pack of two Adrenaclick auto-injectors costs $109.99, which is significantly cheaper than name brands.
Does Walgreens carry a generic EpiPen?
Walgreens, in partnership with drugmaker Kaleo, will be the first retail pharmacy to offer Auvi-Q, an alternative to EpiPen, in an effort to combat the nationwide shortage of the lifesaving allergy drug, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Is there still an EpiPen shortage 2020?
Mylan's manufacturing partner Meridian Medical Technologies, a Pfizer subsidiary that manufactures EpiPen, is still experiencing supply constraints.
Why can't I get an EpiPen?
EpiPen® is an adrenaline auto-injector (also known as an AAI), and is only available on prescription from the doctor. People who are at risk of anaphylaxis will be prescribed auto-injectors to use in an emergency.
Are EpiPens in short supply?
The FDA stresses that while this is a shortage, EpiPens are still being released. “The market continues to be tight due to limited supply, and patients may experience delays, but there is product available,” Nathan Arnold, an FDA spokesman, said in written comments to WebMD.
Does insurance cover EpiPen?
EpiPens are an emergency medical treatment that can slow serious allergic reactions and save lives. Medicare offers coverage for EpiPen prescriptions through Part D (prescription drug) plans or Medicare Advantage plans that include prescription drug coverage.
Do EpiPens need to be refrigerated?
Adrenaline (epinephrine) injectors (e.g. EpiPen® or Anapen®)should be stored: In a cool dark place at room temperature, between 15-25°C, but not refrigerated, as temperatures below 15°C may damage the injector mechanism.
How can I get EpiPen?
To get an EpiPen refill, you must have a prescription from a healthcare provider like your primary care physician. Your previous prescription will show your online doctor that you're eligible for a refill. Some telehealth providers may want you to schedule a new consultation with an online doctor for an EpiPen refill.
What is an Epipen JR?
Epipen, Epipen JR. Epinephrine (EpiPen, EpiPen Jr) is an expensive drug used for the emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions. You should keep this medicine with you at all times. This drug is slightly more popular than comparable drugs. It is available in brand and generic versions.
How much does epinephrine cost?
Epinephrine (EpiPen, EpiPen Jr) is an expensive drug used for the emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions. You should keep this medicine with you at all times. This drug is slightly more popular than comparable drugs. It is available in brand and generic versions. Alternate brands include Adrenaclick. Generic epinephrine is covered by most Medicare and insurance plans, but pharmacy coupons or cash prices may be lower. The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of generic Epipen is around $108.49, 72% off the average retail price of $400.44. Compare catecholamines.
When was Epipen first approved?
EpiPen was initially approved in 1989, but its active ingredient, epinephrine was first synthesized in 1906. It’s always best, when possible, to avoid the allergy trigger that causes your severe allergic reaction. However, if exposure does occurs, an auto-injectable epinephrine like EpiPen is used to help prevent anaphylaxis ...
How long does an Epipen last?
EpiPens can remain unused for long periods of time, so many patients wonder how long an EpiPen can last before it expires. Expiration dates for the auto-injectors come up quickly, usually in one year, meaning regular - and affordable - replacement for this life-saving medication is a must.
How much does Adrenaclick cost?
Adrenaclick is expensive, running close to $500 per two-pack. However, Adrenaclick also has an authorized generic epinephrine auto-injector and it can be obtained from CVS Pharmacy for $109.99 for a two-pack.
What is an Epipen card?
The EpiPen Savings Card, found on Mylan's website, can be used to reduce the amount of out-of-pocket expenses for the patient. The Savings Card is not considered health insurance. Present the Savings Card, valid prescription, and insurance card to your pharmacy.
How much does epinephrine weigh?
The generic epinephrine auto-injector comes in 0.3 mg and 0.15 mg strengths to be used for patients who weigh more than 33 pounds (15 kilograms). It's the same drug and the same device you'd find with the Epipen, and it's used exactly the same way.
How much is Auvi Q?
Auvi-Q may be available free of charge to patients with a household income of less than $100,000 who do not have government or commercial insurance.
Is Mylan a generic?
However, in response to an outcry, in December 2016 Mylan launched the first authorized generic for EpiPen at a 50% discount to the brand name product. However, since the launch of Mylan’s authorized generic for EpiPen, even more affordable generic epinephrine auto-injectors have become available.
What is the phone number for Epipen?
Availability: If you can’t find an EpiPen or its generic nearby, try calling Mylan’s consumer hotline (800-796-9526, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time Monday through Friday). That’s what Jamison, in Virgina, said she did. The company representative was able to locate a generic EpiPen at another nearby pharmacy.
How long are Epipens good after expiration date?
The FDA says its data shows generic and branded EpiPens remain stable for four months after the expiration date. Costco, CVS, Healthwarehouse.com, and Walgreens all confirmed to Consumer Reports that EpiPens and their generic version are still either on back order or in short supply.
How much does an epinephrine injector cost?
Retail price (without insurance): about $250.
How much does Adrenaclick cost?
Retail price (without insurance): about $270. Discounts and programs: For those paying the full price, CVS and Target sell generic Adrenaclick for $109, no coupon required.
How to contact Healthwarehouse about epinephrine?
So check with HealthWarehouse customer service (800-748-7001 or [email protected]) to confirm that it has the product in stock before you order. Here’s a closer look at the options and deals you might find for you or your family when looking to fill an epinephrine auto-injector.
What is the difference between the Epipen and the Auvi-Q?
Auvi-Q. The Auvi-Q, made by Kaleo, is similar to the EpiPen, in that it is an auto-injector triggered by pressing a button. But it has some differences. Notably, it has a step-by-step voice instruction to help a person through the injection process, says Michael Frei, a spokesperson for Walgreens.
Where can I buy Symjepi?
Availability: Symjepi is now widely available in U.S. pharmacies, Schneider says. But some major retailers, including Costco and Walgreens, say they don’t typically stock it, so you’ll need to call ahead if you want to purchase it.
What is an epipen?
EpiPen is an epinephrine auto-injector used to treat a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. If you have life-threatening allergies, it is extremely important to have epinephrine with you at all times.
How to get an extra Epipen?
You may want to get an extra EpiPen to keep at work or give to the school nurse. Ask for a paper or electronic copy of your prescription (s). Obtain a copy of your prescription so you can fill it at your local pharmacy. Sometimes doctors send prescriptions directly to your pharmacy electronically instead.
How to appeal an Epipen denial?
Write your insurance to appeal a denial for EpiPen coverage. Ask your doctor to write a letter on your behalf in support of your need for an EpiPen. Fill out any appeals paperwork on your insurer's website and submit it along with the letter from your doctor. Try to be patient, as appeals can be a months-long process.
How many drug interactions are there with epinephrine?
There are approximately 45 known, major drug interactions with epinephrine. Your pharmacist can advise if any of these apply to you.
Can you have multiple Epipen prescriptions?
Discuss if multiple EpiPen prescriptions are needed. Ask your doctor if multiple prescriptions are necessary so you can have EpiPens at your office, at school, or in your car, depending upon your typical schedule and needs. It's important to carry an EpiPen with you at all times if you have a life-threatening allergy.
Can you take Epipen with spirometry?
The doctor may perform skin-p rick testing or spirometry tests to determine the severity of your allergic symptoms .
Can you use an epi pen for anaphylaxis?
Any allergy that causes anaphylaxis will require an epi pen. It's just dependent on the individual person and how severe their allergy is. While any allergy can require an epi pen, the most common are allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and venom. Thanks! Yes No.
How much is Adrenaclick at CVS?
Adrenaclick (generic): $10 at CVS. Up until this fall, generic Adrenaclick has been the single competitor to EpiPen. Using the exact same drug (epinephrine) and similar technology to inject the drug yourself, it had been priced at just under $300 for a two-pack. Then, through a deal with the manufacturer, CVS was able to lower ...
How much does Mylan cost?
Mylan priced its two-pack generic version at $300. There is no difference between the branded and generic versions of EpiPen, although your insurance may only cover one or the other. If you have commercial insurance, a $25 discount coupon could lower your copay to zero, depending on your insurance coverage. The coupon, however, won't work ...
How much is Auvi Q?
Auvi-Q: $360 or Free With Insurance. Auvi-Q, an auto-injector that features voice prompts to guide its use, was first available in 2013 but was taken off the market in 2015 because of potentially dangerous dosing problems.
Does Kaleo cover Auvi Q?
The good news is that whether you have commercial insurance that covers Auvi-Q or not, Kaleo offers a discount program to reduce your copay to zero. That program won't work for people with Medicare, Medicaid, or other federal or state insurance. Or for anyone who is not insured. You'll face the $360 charge for a two-pack.
Does the Epipen coupon work for Medicare?
The coupon, however, won't work for anyone trying to use it in conjunction with Medicare, Medicaid, or other federal or state insurance. For those without insurance, use a coupon from GoodRx.com —this could lower your price for the two-pack generic EpiPen to around $200 at Walgreens or RiteAid. The branded version of EpiPen is still available ...
Does CVS have generic Adrenaclick?
Good news: Now you can get an EpiPen alternative known as generic Adrenaclick for as little as $10 for a two-pack at CVS —and you don't need insurance to get it. What's more, there are other alternatives such as generic EpiPen and Auvi-Q—a third competitor soon back on the market— that you can get for free, depending on your insurance ...
What is the Epipen brand?
Since its debut, the EpiPen has become one of those brand names– like Band-Aid, Tylenol, or Kleenex– that is almost synonymous with the type of product it represents. To many people, just as a small self-adhesive bandage is simply called Band-Aid, an epinephrine autoinjector is called an EpiPen. But in recent years, a number of new types ...
When was the Epipen first approved?
First approved for sale to patients by the FDA in the 1980s, and redesigned to be slightly more user-friendly in 2009, the EpiPen opened the market for epinephrine autoinjectors, and dominated it for the next thirty years. Before the EpiPen, to self-administer epinephrine during a severe allergic reaction, people with life-threatening allergies ...
What is the epinephrine autoinjector?
Auvi-Q is the only epinephrine autoinjector that offers a dose sized for babies. Maker kaléo recently designed a new version of the Auvi-Q that contains the correct dose of epinephrine for infants and toddlers weighing 16.5 – 33 pounds. No other EAI on the market in the U.S. offers this option.
What is the generic name for Adrenaclick?
Adrenaclick generic epinephrine autoinjectors – Impax. Note: some refer to this generic EAI as “the Impax generic” after the company that makes it, or “the CVS generic” because CVS pharmacies offer it preferentially over other generic EAIs.
What color is the Epipen?
First, the EpiPen’s color coded top and bottom ends (blue to the sky, orange to the thigh) help to prevent users from using the device upside-down and accidentally injecting themselves in a finger or thumb instead of properly injecting themselves or another person in the thigh.
Where can I get Auvi Q?
Currently, the only way to get an Auvi-Q set is to ask your doctor to contact the Auvi-Q manufacturer, kaléo, and ask to set up mail delivery through one of the mail order pharmacies kaléo partners with, or arrange to pick your set up at a participating Walgreens– which is the only brick-and-mortar pharmacy that carries the Auvi-Q, and which, according the to Auvi-Q website’s FAQ, only allows in-store pickup of Auvi-Qs for those whose insurance covers it; participants in Auvi-Qs zero copay or affordability programs must still use a mail-order pharmacy.#N#This means, firstly, that your prescribing doctor has to be familiar with the Auvi-Q ordering process in order for you to get one. Secondly, if you do take delivery by mail (which is the most common way to get an Auvi-Q) you will have to deal with the typical issues associated with the delivery of mail order medications: delivery can take several days, and there is some chance that your package of live-saving medicine might wind up rain-soaked, overheated, smashed, taken by porch pirates, delivered to the wrong house, etc.#N#For patients who need access to epinephrine autoinjectors immediately– because they are newly diagnosed, because they used their entire supply to treat a reaction, because a school or daycare is demanding a new set for the office, etc., the delay and potential logistical issues associated with mail-order might be a dealbreaker. But you may be able to get around this problem if you are able to pick your prescription up at a Walgreens that has Auvi-Qs in stock.
Does Adrenaclick have a needle cover?
The Adrenaclick also lacks an important safety feature that other EAIs offer. The EpiPen and Auvi-Q both have a mechanism in place to automatically cover the needle after an injection. The EpiPen uses an automatic pop-out needle cover; the Auvi-Q, a retracting needle.
Controversy
Overview
- Epinephrine (EpiPen, EpiPen Jr, Adrenaclick, Auvi-Q, Symjepi, or generic versions of the epinephrine auto-injector) is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is the man-made version of adrenaline, a natural hormone substance the body releases in response to stress, and it is classified as a catecholamine. Without the immediate administration of epinephrine, th…
Treatment
- Its always best, when possible, to avoid the allergy trigger that causes your severe allergic reaction. However, if exposure does occurs, an auto-injectable epinephrine like EpiPen is used to help prevent anaphylaxis and should be given quickly.
Cost
- One brand name EpiPen or EpiPen Jr. package (which contains 2 auto-injectors) will cost roughly $650-$700 if you are paying cash, although pharmacy coupons or manufacturers discounts may lower the price. It may be worthwhile to check with your insurance company before you get your prescription to find out which epinephrine product is covered. Yes, cheaper options are now avai…
Availability
- Mylan has released an authorized generic version of the EpiPen, which is the same drug and device without the EpiPen brand name. Using online coupons, consumers can get the authorized generic epinephrine auto-injector two pack from $150 to over $300 at some pharmacies; again its worth checking around if you are a cash customer. Some patients may be...
Variations
- Another option is a product known as Adrenaclick, which is an epinephrine auto-injector that is similar to EpiPen but made by the manufacturer Impax. Adrenaclick is expensive, running close to $500 per two-pack. However, Adrenaclick also has an authorized generic epinephrine auto-injector and it can be obtained from CVS Pharmacy for $109.99 for a two-pack. Other pharmacies also o…
Society and culture
- In August 2016 two U.S. senators questioned why there had been such a massive EpiPen price increase by Mylan, the manufacturer of EpiPen. Concerns existed that the drug was not priced fairly for patients with a life-threatening allergy. Over the last decade, the EpiPen cost had soared from roughly $100 to over $600 per two-injector package.
Programs
- Mylan also offers an EpiPen patient assistance program for those who are eligible. To enroll, patients must complete the patient assistance program form with their physician.
Community
- Patients can obtain additional information on the program by emailing [email protected] or calling Mylan Customer Relations at 1-800-395-3376 to speak with a representative.
Specifications
- Auvi-Q is a brand name epinephrine auto-injector with unique features such as voice instructions that help guide a user with step-by-step instructions through the epinephrine delivery process, a smaller size, and an automatic retractable needle system. This serves as a safety feature and retracts the needle back into the device within seconds.
Toxicity
- Two lower doses of Auvi-Q (0.1 mg and 0.15 mg) are also approved to deliver a dose of epinephrine appropriate for infants and small children weighing 16.5 to 33 lbs (7.5 to 15 kilograms) and 33 to 66 lbs (15 to 30 kg), respectively.
Issue
- The question often comes up: How long do EpiPens last before they expire? Expiration dates for the auto-injectors come up quickly, usually in one year, meaning regular - and affordable - replacement for this life-saving medication is a must. Patients usually need multiple EpiPen packs to keep at home, work, or school in case of exposure to the allergen.
Prevention
- Most schools in the U.S. now either require or allow the school to have access to epinephrine for those who do not have their own supply. Keep a supply of epinephrine at home, work AND at school, and remember to refill your prescription before your epinephrine auto-injector has expired.
Miscellaneous
- Other countries, such as Canada, have epinephrine auto-injectors available without a prescription at the pharmacy.
Risks
- If you happen to be in Canada, buying an EpiPen from an established pharmacy will cost you around $100 to $150, and it is available without a prescription. Canada, like the U.S., does have strict laws overseeing the safety of prescription medications. However, bringing an epinephrine auto-injector over the border from Canada into the U.S. may be questioned and your medication …