EpiPen Just Got Cheaper for Some

Caving to pressure, Mylan expands assistance programs
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Aug 25, 2016 7:54 AM CDT
EpiPen Just Got Cheaper for Some
Mylan is lowering the price.   (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski, File)

The public scolding of drugmaker Mylan over the soaring price of EpiPen seems to have worked: The company on Thursday didn't lower the price, but it made the allergy injections cheaper for many by expanding its assistance programs. Specifically, it doubled eligibility for relief to 400% of the poverty level, declaring on its website that a family of four that earns $97,200 would pay no out-of-pocket expenses, reports the Wall Street Journal. It also said it is offering a savings card that will cover up to $300 for a two-pack of the allergy injections, amounting to a savings of 50% for those who were otherwise paying the full price, reports the AP.

“We recognize the significant burden on patients from continued, rising insurance premiums and being forced increasingly to pay the full list price for medicines at the pharmacy counter,” says CEO Heather Bresch. “However, price is only one part of the problem that we are addressing with today’s actions.” On Wednesday, Hillary Clinton joined those calling for Mylan to lower the price, which has risen about 500% since 2008, notes Reuters. (More Mylan stories.)

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