If you are like me, I am sure that you have friends or even a family member who has had to rely on the rescue abilities of an EPI Pen. Anaphylaxis can be deadly and symptoms include swelling of the tongue or throat, shortness of breath, and a rash. I know people who have allergies to peanut butter or bee stings and have experienced these symptoms, having had to use their EPI Pens. They never leave home without one, but they may have to now.
The EPI Pen, which contains the lifesaving epinephrine dosage, is now coming under controversy as it is becoming more and more difficult to afford. Back in 2007, a two-dosage prescription was costing most patients about $100. Today, the price is $600 for the same dosage. This is absolutely unacceptable. People who have the need for this drug to potentially save their lives, should not have to pay this much for something that could almost be considered a necessity.
The CEO of the company that makes EPI Pens, Heather Bresch, has benefited from this by her salary increasing from $2 million a year, to a whopping $19 million, just by the increase in price. Not only that, but Bresch has stated that it is not her fault for the increased price, but that it is driven by the pharmaceutical market place. And even though the manufacturer, Mylan, is offering $300 coupons back to the patients, those rebates will have to be picked up by the insurance companies, who will then increase the prices of their premiums, in turn costing the patients even more.
Even big name stars are being effected by this. Hollywood actress Sarah Jessica Parker, who had been a paid spokesperson for Mylan, cut ties with the company. She herself has a son with a severe peanut allergy, making the EPI Pen a very important part of her family's life. She was quoted as saying that Mylan's actions disappoint her, especially because of the millions of people who rely on having their EPI Pen there when they need it.
Hers and many others hopes are that Mylan will stop these unfair price increases and do what is in the best interest for the consumers.
