New law to make EpiPens cheaper in New York

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- For those with severe allergies Epinephrine Auto injectors, commonly called EpiPens, are a life-saving tool.

"If you need to use an EpiPen, it’s because you’re having a life-threatening allergic reaction," said New York State Commissioner, James McDonald. "You can’t go looking for it, you got to have it handy and it’s got to be in date. So people need to have theirs and have it at their quick disposal."

According to Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office, EpiPens can cost upwards of $600 for a pack of two. The governor recently signed a new law requiring insurance companies to cover the cost of EpiPens.

It would cap the amount people would have to pay out-of-pocket to $100. 

"This is just to me, a nice example of making New York More affordable, but also recognizing you have a life-threatening problem— you’re allergic to something with anaphylaxis being the possible outcome, you shouldn’t have to worry whether you can get the EpiPen prescription filled or not."

For those with EpiPens, Commissioner McDonald shared this reminder. 

"Generally, when you take any prescription drug out of your retail pharmacy after a year, you should replace it. So, if you haven’t replaced your EpiPen in a year, it’s a good idea to do that."

Last month, the governor signed legislation requiring EpiPens to be easily accessible at large public venues in New York State.