Mylan N.V. announced that its U.S. subsidiary will launch the first generic to EpiPen Auto-Injector (epinephrine injection, USP) at a list price of $300 per generic EpiPen two-pack carton, which represents a discount of more than 50 percent to the Mylan list price, or wholesale acquisition cost, of the branded medicine.
According to a press release, the authorized generic will be identical to the branded product, including device functionality and drug formulation. Mylan expects to launch the product in several weeks, pending completion of labeling revisions. Upon launch, the product will be available as a two-pack carton in both 0.15 mg and 0.30 mg strengths. Mylan also intends to continue to market and distribute branded EpiPen.
Mylan CEO Heather Bresch said, "We understand the deep frustration and concerns associated with the cost of EpiPen to the patient, and have always shared the public's desire to ensure that this important product be accessible to anyone who needs it. Our decision to launch a generic alternative to EpiPen is an extraordinary commercial response, which required the cooperation of our partner. However, because of the complexity and opaqueness of today's branded pharmaceutical supply chain and the increased shifting of costs to patients as a result of high deductible health plans, we determined that bypassing the brand system in this case and offering an additional alternative was the best option."
To enhance affordability for the broadest patient population possible, both the augmented patient assistance program and the $300 savings card announced last week will remain in place for the brand product. The $300 My EpiPen Savings Card acts as cash at the pharmacy and is available at epipen.com/savings. People interested in learning more about the patient assistance program should contact Mylan's Customer Relations team at 800-395-3376. Mylan also will continue its EpiPen4Schools program.
In addition, Mylan intends to initiate a direct ship program in conjunction with the launch of the generic at the $300 generic list price.