State Legislation Would Make Epinephrine Auto-Injectors More Affordable

Lawmakers in Colorado have introduced legislation to limit the cost of epinephrine auto-injectors to state residents.

The bill, introduced on the first day of the legislative session, would allow uninsured people to buy auto-injectors for no more than $60 per two-pack. Similarly, it would also cap out-of-pocket costs for insured people at $60 per two-pack.

The sponsors say the legislation is in response to the skyrocketing costs of the lifesaving drug. EpiPen, a brand of epinephrine auto-injector marketed by Viatris — formerly Mylan — was the subject of price gouging allegations as the price was raised from $60 in 2007 to over $600 in 2016. In response to the uproar, the company introduced a generic version of EpiPen — identical to the branded version — for $300 in 2016.

“The cost of producing it has remained the same, so Coloradans shouldn’t be subject to that sort of price gouging,” said newly elected Rep Javier Mabrey from Denver, sponsor of the bill.

The bill — HB 23-1002 — requires insurance carriers that provide coverage for prescription epinephrine auto-injectors to cap the total amount that a covered person is required to pay at an amount not to exceed $60 for a 2-pack of epinephrine auto-injectors.

Pharmacies that dispense epinephrine auto-injectors are authorized to collect a copayment not to exceed $60 from the individual to cover the pharmacy’s costs of processing and dispensing a 2-pack of epinephrine auto-injectors.

Manufacturers of epinephrine auto-injectors would be required to make epinephrine auto-injectors available to individuals through the program and to reimburse the dispensing pharmacy an amount that covers the difference between the pharmacy’s wholesale cost and the amount paid by the consumer.

The bill is co-sponsored by Sen Dylan Roberts and Rep Iman Jodeh.

Let us know of legislative efforts in your state to lower the cost of epinephrine.