Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Mylan's Generic EpiPen Expected To Generate Millions In Revenue, Protect Against Competition
The Associated Press: After Harsh Light, A Cheaper Version Of EpiPen From Mylan
Mylan is releasing a generic version of its emergency allergy treatment EpiPen at half the price of the branded option, the cost of which drew scorn from parents nationwide and spawned Congressional inquiries. The potential cost savings will depend in part on a patient's insurance coverage and qualifications for discount and assistance programs that the drugmaker also provides. (12/16)
The Wall Street Journal: Mylan Launches Cheaper Generic EpiPen Alternative
Mylan NV, whose price increases on its lifesaving EpiPen drug triggered broad criticism and a federal probe this summer, on Friday said it had launched a half-priced generic version of the medicine. In August, Mylan had said it was planning to sell a generic version of the emergency treatment of allergic reactions at a price of $300 for two injection pens, compared with a list price of about $609 for its branded EpiPen product. The company confirmed the pricing on Friday. (Steele, 12/16)
NPR: Mylan Launching Half-Price, Generic Version Of EpiPen
In its announcement, Mylan continued to blame the EpiPen price increases on insurance companies and the complex drug pricing system in the U.S. CEO Heather Bresch has repeatedly argued that it is harder for consumers to afford expensive medications because of high-deductible health plans and high copayments. "Families will continue to face sticker shock for medications and may be forced to make difficult choices until the pharmaceutical pricing system is reformed to address the increasing shift of costs directly to consumers," Bresch said in the company's statement. (Kodjak, 12/16)
