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Drugstore chain CVS offers EpiPen generic for 600% cheaper

pharmafile | January 12, 2017 | News story | Medical Communications, Sales and Marketing CVS, Mylan, epipen 

The Mylan EpiPen scandal was one of last year’s most closely-followed stories, as the industry reacted with scorn to CEO Heather Bresch and co.’s 400% mark-up on the price tag of the company’s flagship auto-injector, bringing the total cost to around $600.

The company finally made good on its promise to rectify the situation by releasing a generic alternative, but at $300, it still remains out of reach for many who need it. Now, drugstore chain CVS has announced it is now selling rival generic version Adrenaclick for $109.99 for a two pack – almost 600% less than Mylan’s branded product.

Karen Eldred, a spokesperson for health insurer Cigna, stated: “It is positive news for our customers who rely on the life-saving EpiPen Auto-Injector that Mylan has launched the first authorised generic version.  The generic version, available now in pharmacies, has the same drug formulation and device functionality as the branded medication, but at a substantial cost savings.  With this new development, we have revised our covered drug list to encourage use of the generic version as it will deliver more overall value to customers and clients.” 

In the wake of Mylan’s price hiking, Cigna has recently announced that it will no longer cover the company’s branded product, instead only offering coverage for the cheaper generic version.

“As with other situations, we will work with a customer’s doctor  if there is a reason to consider approving coverage for the non-covered brand drug as medically necessary,” Eldred added.

Matt Fellows

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