How much does Auvi-Q cost compared to EpiPen?

The cash price for a 2-pack of Auvi-Q autoinjector is around $300 compared to $650 for an EpiPen 2-pack. Prices can vary depending upon the pharmacy you visit and if you have any coupons or manufacturer discounts. Auvi-Q and EpiPen are brand names for epinephrine autoinjectors.

An epinephrine autoinjector (or pen) is a self-injectable device used to help prevent a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to substances like food, insects or medicines.

Cost-savings

Manufacturer savings may be available for many products. Manufacturers who participate usually have their copay cards available to print off on their websites. Just present your card at the pharmacy each time you refill your prescription.

Discounts that may be available to you for Auvi-Q or EpiPen include:

Auvi-Q

• The average copay is $35 for people with commercial (private) insurance and $150 if you have no insurance. Many government insurance plans also cover Auvi-Q with a low copay.
• Auvi-Q is made by Kaleo. Call 1-877-30-AUVIQ for more information.

EpiPen

• Savings cards for EpiPen and the authorized generic version of EpiPen are available. You may be able to save $300 per EpiPen 2-pack prescription refill using a savings card if you have commercial (private) insurance. The EpiPen Savings Card may help you save on out-of-pocket costs.
• The authorized generic for Epipen (called Epinephrine Injection, USP) is also available and is the same medicine and device without the EpiPen brand name. The Epinephrine Injection, USP Auto-Injector Savings Card can help provide up to $25 in savings for each authorized generic version 2-pack of epinephrine autoinjector.
• Contact Viatris for more savings information on EpiPen and the authorized generic for Epipen (Epinephrine Injection, USP).

If you have government-sponsored insurance such as Medicare, Medicaid or Tricare, you may not be eligible for manufacturer copays savings.

Insurance

• Check with your prescription insurance plan (if you are covered) for your copay cost. Ask which epinephrine autoinjector product is on your plan formulary and what the copay might be based on your benefits. Your prescription copay may be more affordable than paying cash out-of-pocket.
• If your health plan covers a different epinephrine product than what your doctor has prescribed, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your medication options and cost-savings.

Learn more: EpiPen Costs and Alternatives: What Are Your Best Options?

Is there a generic on the market?

Yes, generic options for epinephrine autoinjectors are now available and may help you save money.

Teva Pharmaceuticals offers a $30 savings coupon for a generic epinephrine autoinjector on their website for people with commercial insurance. This product comes as a 2-pack autoinjector. This savings coupon can help pay for $30 of your out-of-pocket costs. ​​If you have any questions regarding your eligibility or benefits, call Teva Pharmaceuticals 844-248-7949.

An authorized generic for Adrenaclick autoinjector, another brand name for epinephrine, is also available from Amneal Pharmaceuticals. If you are paying with commercial insurance, the manufacturer offers a $10 savings card. You can find this card on their website.

If you don't have insurance and are paying cash for any epinephrine product, there is a wide range of costs at different pharmacies, so it will help to look for an online pharmacy coupon. Speak with your pharmacist about cost savings for epinephrine autoinjectors.

Related: Epinephrine brand and generic prices on Drugs.com

Related questions

• Can you use an expired EpiPen in an emergency?
• Norepinephrine vs epinephrine: what's the difference?
• Can you bring an EpiPen on a plane?

What does epinephrine do?

Epinephrine is the man-made form of adrenaline, the natural hormone the body releases in response to stress. The prompt administration of epinephrine to people who are having a serious allergic reaction can help to prevent anaphylaxis, which can happen in minutes and be fatal.

People with severe allergic reactions should always carry an epinephrine injection because anaphylaxis (pronounced "ana-fi-LAX-is") can happen unexpectedly. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency due to a severe allergy and may result in symptoms such as:

• Trouble with breathing
• Hives
• Swelling (face, eyes, throat, mouth or lips)
• Wheezing
• A dangerous drop in blood pressure
• Fainting
• Chest tightness
• Nausea, vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Pale or red skin color

Anaphylaxis can be caused by common allergens, such as stinging and biting insects, allergy injections, foods (like nuts, eggs or seafood), medicines, exercise, or other causes.

Call for emergency medical help (call 911 in the U.S) after an epinephrine injection additional medical treatment may be needed.

Note: Prices can vary depending on the pharmacy you visit, insurance or manufacturer price adjustments. Look for online discount coupons or discount cards if paying cash out-of-pocket. Coupon values change frequently. Generic epinephrine is covered by most insurers, including Medicare, Medicaid and commercial insurance plans. Check with your insurance first.

This is not all the information you need to know about epinephrine for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.