Inexpensive Epipen Options?

[koilife]

I am allergic to bee stings and carry an Epipen whenever backpacking (discovered in childhood, never stung since due to basic caution). However, my last prescription is just over a year expired, so I went back to get a renewal, and the prices have skyrocketed. Evidently, Mylan, who has a virtual monopoly on this in the US, has quadrupled the prices in the last five years (and taken a $200M drug to over $1B in the process). Even with medical insurance, I'm looking at >$100 for a two pack (without insurance, it's >$400).

I understand that there are far less expensive epinephrine options in Europe. What I should look for in Spain (same/different brand or manufacturer?), and what might I expect by way of cost? And, will I need a prescription or is it readily available over the counter?

 

[wayfarer]

Hi koilife, all I can tell you is that a single pen in Ireland costs €57 and you would need a prescription. I'm not sure about the situation Spain but going on the price of meds in general there it may be much cheaper.

 

[Rebekah Scott]

Koi, I use Epipens. Bring a prescription from your doctor, with her signature and seal and whatever else kind of official-looking stuff you can attach. Make sure it's legible. A larger Spanish pharmacy will have em. I don't know what the retail is... I'm on the state system, so I paid 11 Euro for my last one. (And people ask me how I can bear to live outside the USA!)