Recently, the pharmaceutical company Mylan increased the price of the EpiPen by over 400%. Friends on social media are now facing copays of $250, while NBC News reports that the price can exceed $500 without insurance. This dramatic increase leaves many individuals unable to afford this life-saving device, putting them at risk of severe anaphylactic reactions—a truly alarming situation.
The fear that comes with having a child with severe allergies is something only a parent can truly understand. When my son, Alex, was just two years old, he was stung by a bee during a playdate. Initially, it seemed like a minor irritation, but within minutes, he developed hives and his body began to swell. By the time we reached home, his eyes were barely open due to the swelling.
On the way to the hospital, Alex went into shock and nearly required intubation. After a week of steroid treatment and immediate care at the hospital, he was stable but terrified. Following that experience, we received a prescription for an EpiPen.
The EpiPen functions as a critical emergency tool. If Alex accidentally gets stung again, I have to act quickly. I carry the EpiPen in a special pouch everywhere we go. When the moment arises, I must uncap it and administer the injection into his thigh, all while he struggles against the fear of needles. This device delivers epinephrine, which constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and relaxes lung muscles, providing temporary relief from anaphylaxis. However, it’s not a substitute for immediate medical attention; we still need to head to the hospital to ensure that the reaction is fully under control.
We keep two EpiPens on hand—one for immediate use and a backup just in case. Anaphylaxis can lead to a host of severe symptoms: hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face and tongue, all of which pose a significant risk of death if not treated swiftly. The alarming reality is that for many families, accessing this vital medication has become a financial burden.
Mylan has defended its price increases, claiming that they reflect the product’s value and the investments made in its development. Yet, critics argue that the production cost of epinephrine does not justify such exorbitant price hikes. Since 1999, the cost for a two-pack of EpiPens has surged from around $100 to more than $600 today. The market dynamics have shifted in Mylan’s favor, especially after the recall of their main competitor, Auvi-Q, leaving many parents with limited options.
With approximately 1 in 50 Americans facing life-threatening allergies, this price hike poses a grave health threat. Many parents may resort to using expired EpiPens due to the high cost, jeopardizing their children’s safety. Until alternative companies emerge or the competitor returns to the market, the ability to protect against anaphylaxis may remain an unattainable luxury for some families. The thought of my child facing a severe allergic reaction is nothing short of terrifying.
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In summary, the rising costs of EpiPens highlight a significant health crisis, especially for families dealing with severe allergies. As prices soar, many parents are left in a precarious situation, fearing for their child’s safety without the means to secure essential care.