How much does an EpiPen cost?
How much does an EpiPen cost?
$650 – $735 brand-name prescription cost (without insurance)
$100 – $500 generic prescription cost (without insurance)
EpiPen cost
An EpiPen costs $650 to $735 per two-pack for the brand-name medication, while generic alternatives cost $100 to $500 per two-pack without insurance. The EpiPen cost with insurance depends on your specific plan and coverage, the copayment, and the pharmacy’s negotiated rate with the insurance company.
| Medication version | Average cost without insurance* |
|---|---|
| Brand-name EpiPen | $650 – $735 |
| Generic epinephrine devices | $100 – $500 |
*For standard two-pack
Important safety information: EpiPen (epinephrine injection, USP) 0.3 mg and EpiPen JR (epinephrine injection, USP) 0.15 mg Auto-Injectors are intended for immediate administration as emergency supportive therapy only and are not intended as a substitute for immediate medical or hospital care.
Brand-name EpiPen
Brand-name EpiPen devices cost $650 to $735 per two-pack without insurance. While the epinephrine is the same for brand-name and generic medications, the auto-injector device itself is proprietary for EpiPen. Patients often prefer the brand-name EpiPen for its dependability and precise dosing.
Some schools only stock brand-name EpiPens due to familiarity and may not allow generic alternatives, as any difference in design could delay emergency treatment and have serious health consequences.
Generic epinephrine devices
Generic epinephrine auto-injectors cost $100 to $500 per two-pack on average without insurance. An authorized generic is identical to the brand name drug except for the label name. The brand name company often markets the authorized generic to continue profiting from the drug after the patent protection expires.
Additionally, there are alternative epinephrine auto-injectors available for as little as $100. These epinephrine medications work in the same way as an EpiPen to relieve symptoms of anaphylaxis but aren’t identical in design. Because of that, a pharmacist can’t substitute them without your healthcare provider's approval.
| Device | Average cost | Identical to EpiPen? | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Authorized generic for EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. | $285 – $515 | Yes |
|
| Adrenaclick | $450 – $500 | No |
|
| Authorized generic for Adrenaclick | $100 – $180 | No |
|
| Auvi-Q | $150 – $650 | No |
|
| Symjepi | $240 – $280 | No |
|
EpiPen cost by pharmacy
The cost of epinephrine can vary by pharmacy, ranging from $650 to $735 for a brand-name EpiPen prescription or $285 to $540 for an authorized generic which is identical in medication, dosing, and design.
| Pharmacy | Brand-name EpiPen cost* | Authorized generic EpiPen cost* |
|---|---|---|
| CVS | $650 | $340 |
| Walgreens | $735 | $340 |
| Walmart | $685 | $285 |
| Publix | $700 | $515 |
| Costco | $700 | $480 |
| Rite aid | $730 | $540 |
| Kroger | $700 | $370 |
*Per two-pack of injectors
Alternatively, other epinephrine injectors may cost less, but your healthcare provider must determine if they will safely work for you. These alternatives contain the same active ingredient, epinephrine, but the inactive ingredients and injector designs may differ.
Check with your prescriber about cheaper medications and with your pharmacy about available discount programs, like Good Rx, which can help you reduce your out-of-pocket medication costs.
What is an EpiPen used for?
EpiPen is a brand name for an epinephrine auto-injector, a medical device used to deliver a single, precise dose of epinephrine (adrenaline) in emergencies. Epinephrine treats severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
Epinephrine works by counteracting the effects of anaphylaxis caused by bee stings, medications, shellfish, latex, nuts, peanuts, and other food allergies. The signs of anaphylaxis can include:
Difficulty breathing
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat
Hives
Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness or fainting
Rapid heart rate
Weak pulse
How to safely use an EpiPen
Follow the advice of your healthcare provider or pharmacist on the proper use, storage, and disposal of your epinephrine device. If you are unsure whether you are experiencing anaphylactic systems, use your auto-injector and call 911.
Most prescribers also recommend the following:
Wear a medical alert bracelet to alert others around you of your condition.
Create an emergency treatment plan and make sure your family, friends, and coworkers know how to help you if you need assistance.
Always keep two epinephrine auto-injectors on hand. Injectors come in a two-pack in case you require two doses. Your healthcare provider will discuss scenarios that may require a second dose.
In case of anaphylaxis, CALL 911 or have someone take you to the nearest emergency room. Using an EpiPen does not replace seeing a doctor or going to the hospital as symptoms may reoccur.
After getting medical help, remember to ask for a new prescription and fill it immediately.
Monitor the expiration date and the color of the liquid in the injector. Replace your injectors by the expiration date or if the liquid is no longer clear.
How to save money on an EpiPen
If you are struggling to pay for your life-saving medication, consider these money-saving tips:
Ask your prescriber for authorized generic or alternative epinephrine auto-injectors that cost less, such as Adrenaclick.
Use coupons or discounts available on the manufacturer's website.
Sign up for pharmacy discount programs. Stores like Costco, Sam's Club, and Kroger may offer discounted rates on some generic medications for their members.
Order from an online pharmacy, including pharmacies like GoodRx and WellRx for significant savings.
Check to see if you qualify for any medication assistance. Some manufacturers offer programs to help uninsured or underinsured patients afford their prescriptions.
Are prescription prices too high for your EpiPen medication? Discuss cheaper alternatives with your doctor or pharmacist for potential savings. For example, Auvi-Q offers a $0 copay program for patients with income below $100,000 per year.
EpiPen FAQs
What is an EpiPen?
EpiPen is a brand name for an auto-injectable dose of epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. Patients with severe allergic reactions use epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition.
When do I use an EpiPen?
You should use an EpiPen right away when you or someone near you is experiencing a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. Signs of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, a rapid or weak pulse, and a drop in blood pressure.
Remember, an EpiPen is not a substitute for emergency medical care. After using the EpiPen, seek immediate medical attention.
How do I use an EpiPen?
EpiPens are designed to be easy to use in an emergency:
Remove the blue safety cap: Hold the EpiPen in one hand with the orange tip pointing downward. Use your other hand to remove the blue safety cap.
Hold the EpiPen firmly: Hold the EpiPen with the orange tip near the outer thigh. Remember, it's for injection into the thigh, not the buttocks.
Swing and jab: With a quick, swinging motion, jab the orange tip firmly into the outer thigh until you hear a click. The EpiPen works through clothing, so don't waste time removing it.
Hold in place: Keep the EpiPen in place for about 3 seconds to allow the medication to be delivered.
Seek emergency help: After using the EpiPen, call for emergency medical assistance immediately. Even if symptoms improve, it's crucial to get professional medical evaluation and care.
Dispose of the used EpiPen properly: Place the used EpiPen in a sharps container if available or follow local regulations for proper disposal.
Where do I buy an EpiPen?
EpiPens are typically available from any pharmacy with a prescription from your healthcare provider.
Does an EpiPen expire?
Yes, EpiPens have expiration dates. The manufacturer prints the expiration date on the packaging, which patients should monitor. Do not rely on an expired EpiPen, as it may not deliver the correct dose of epinephrine.
Also, check your EpiPen regularly for any discoloration, cloudiness, or particles in the liquid. Using a compromised or contaminated solution may not deliver the correct dose of epinephrine and could potentially be harmful.
Questions to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist
When discussing EpiPens with your healthcare provider or pharmacist, it's important to gather all the necessary information to ensure proper usage and address any concerns. Here are some questions you should ask:
Why do I need an EpiPen?
How do I use the EpiPen correctly?
When should I use the EpiPen?
Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with the EpiPen?
What is the expiration date of my EpiPen?
Are there any specific storage requirements for the EpiPen?
Can I get a generic version of the EpiPen?
What do I do if my EpiPen is expired or damaged?
Are there any interactions with other medications I am taking?
What is the recommended dosage for me?
Can you demonstrate how to use the EpiPen?
Is there any additional information or resources you recommend for managing severe allergies?
Do I still need to seek medical attention if I feel better after using my EpiPen?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.