© 2024 Maine Public | Registered 501(c)(3) EIN: 22-3171529
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Scroll down to see all available streams.

Susan Collins Wants Explanation for EpiPen Price Hike

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine wants the company that manufactures EpiPens to explain why the price has jumped 480 percent in recent years.

Collins, chair of the Senate Aging Committee, along with ranking member Claire McCaskill, sent a letter to the CEO of pharmaceutical company Mylan saying they’re concerned the lifesaving EpiPen may now be out of reach for some individuals. The cost for a two-pack has risen from about $100 in 2008 to a current price of $600.

Collins and McCaskill say they’re particularly worried about access for seniors, who, according to Mylan’s website, may have an increased risk for anaphylactic reaction from bug bites and stings.

The senators are asking for a detailed explanation for the price increase within two weeks.