Cheaper alternative to EpiPen available

Drug same, method of delivery different

SAN ANTONIO – The price of a lifesaving EpiPen has skyrocketed, putting people with severe allergic reactions at risk.Since the drug manufacturer, Mylan, purchased EpiPen in 2007, the price has gone up more than 400 percent. Doctors can prescribe another kind of auto-injector for epinephrine that can cost hundreds of dollars less.

The epinephrine auto-injector, also called generic Adrenaclick, uses the exact same drug in the exact same dose as EpiPen, according to  Consumer Reports.

The difference is in how the injector pens are designed and how they work.

With EpiPen, patients need to remove a blue safety release, push an orange tip against the outer thigh until the pen clicks and then wait three seconds until the drug is fully injected.

With the epinephrine auto-injector, patients remove two grey caps, push a red tip against the outer thigh until the needle punctures the skin and then wait 10 seconds until the drug is fully injected. Either device could save a life in an emergency, so it’s important to fully understand how the prescribed device works.

For people who are frustrated with the high price of EpiPen, Consumer Reports said Adrenaclick may be an option to discuss with their doctor. A prescription is required.

Consumers should also shop around to see which pharmacies have it in stock or how quickly they can order it. Pharmacies also charge varying prices. In addition, discount coupons can significantly reduce the cost of the drug. 


About the Author:

Marilyn Moritz is an award-winning journalist dedicated to digging up information that can make people’s lives a little bit better. As KSAT’S 12 On Your Side Consumer reporter, she focuses on exposing scams and dangerous products and helping people save money.