Governor Jared Polis of Colorado signed House Bill 23-1002 this week which caps the out-of-pocket cost for a two-pack of epinephrine auto-injectors at $60 beginning in January.
Epinephrine is the only drug that can halt and reverse the progression of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction to a food, drug, insect venom, or environmental substance, and a two-pack of auto-injectors can run as high as $600.
The cap only applies to health insurance plans that are regulated by the state as indicated by the text “CO-DOI” printed on insurance cards. Those not covered by such a plan and not covered by Medicare or Medicaid will be able to purchase auto-injectors for $60 by applying for a new affordability program to be instituted next year.
We at SnackSafely.com applaud the efforts to cap epinephrine auto-injector prices in Colorado and urge other states to follow suit.
We often hear from readers who are forced to forgo carrying the devices or must split a two-pack with another family because they have become unaffordable.
With new alternatives to epinephrine auto-injectors expected to come to market, we hope the expanded supply will also drive down prices.
