First Generic Version Of EpiPen Injector Approved By FDA And Could Lower Cost Of Drug
Teva gets approval from the Food and Drug Administration to sell its version of the epinephrine auto-injector, but hasn't yet revealed its pricing. Mylan, the manufacturer of the brand-name EpiPen, has faced public criticism and congressional investigations for raising the price of its lifesaving drug 450 percent since 2004.
Stat:
FDA Approved The First-Ever Generic Version Of EpiPen
The Food and Drug Administration approved the first-ever generic version of EpiPen Thursday — a move the agency says could help lower costs for the drug, which can carry a price tag of more than $600. It isn’t clear how much the new version, which will be sold by Teva, will cost. But it may be a lower-cost option for individuals with allergies, who need to keep this lifesaving medicine with them at all times. Right now, a two-pack of EpiPen, marketed by Mylan, currently lists for $608.61. Mylan also makes its own “authorized generic” version, which it sells for $300 per pair. (Swetlitz, 8/16)
NPR:
FDA Approves New Generic Version Of The EpiPen For Allergic Reactions
The FDA says the approval of the new products should help with both cost and availability. "Today's approval of the first generic version of the most-widely prescribed epinephrine auto-injector in the U.S. is part of our longstanding commitment to advance access to lower cost, safe and effective generic alternatives," FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb said in a statement announcing the approval. (Stein, 8/16)
The Associated Press:
US Approves New Generic Competitor To EpiPen
EpiPen injections are stocked by schools and parents nationwide to treat children with severe allergies. They are used in emergencies to stop potentially fatal allergic reactions to insect bites and stings and foods like nuts and eggs. EpiPen maker Mylan has dominated the $1 billion market for the shots for two decades. Several other companies sell competing shots containing the drug epinephrine, but they aren’t heavily marketed or prescribed by doctors. (Perrone, 8/16)