I was excited when the new epinephrine auto-injector, Auvi-Q™ was recently released. I was excited because not only does it offer an advancement in technology but it offers an alternative to the EpiPen®, which also means competition. And more competitive pricing is typically the end result of alternatives.
I was determined to get the Auvi-Q™ injectors the day they were released. I was forewarned during my Auvi-Q™ journey that they would be expensive but a member of our local food allergy support group, Richmond Food Allergy Support Group, had posted a coupon on the group Facebook page. The coupon offered, “(Pay no more than) $25 for the first two AuviQ™ prescriptions.” I ended up paying $40, which was a lot less than expected and was thrilled to have the new technology in my hands.
I am happy with the Auvi-Q™. My favorite aspect of the new epinephrine injector, is not that’s it’s pocket size, which is fantastic, but the fact that it features simple voice instructions. If you are in need of using the injector, you simply pull the cap and it offers clear step-by-step instructions, including a count down while you are injecting. A fabulous feature, especially in a moment that you have the tendency to panic and/or go blank.
I have no intention of discarding my EpiPens® but had full intention of replacing them with Auvi-Q™, once they were expired. That is until Kids with Food Allergies, a non-profit organization, that offers the largest online support community for families raising children with food allergies, posted an EpiPen® coupon. Suddenly what was obviously Mylan’s (the makers of EpiPens®) new campaign to keep EpiPen® as the leading epinephrine injector was reaching the food allergy community quickly. Facebook posts that read, “$0 Co-Pay Offer Card for EpiPens, ” were spreading fast.
Ultimately, Caroline Moassessi, the Grateful Foodie’s article, “Affordable Epi Pens! Really,” caught my attention enough to further investigate. To learn more about Mylar’s EpiPen® offer read, “Affordable Epi Pens! Really.” She gives you the full and direct scoop, including the phone number to obtain additional information and your own “$0 Co-Pay Offer Card.” I made the call and Mylan’s customer service was excellent and told me to expect my card in the mail within the next couple of weeks.
I usually keep three sets of EpiPens® for my kiddo; one in the school nurse’s office, one with me, and my kiddo carries one. I will take full advantage of Mylar’s promotion and keep the EpiPens® in the nurse’s office and my kiddo and I will carry the Auvi-Q’s™ that are pocket size and offer voice instructions.
I have chatted with several food allergy mothers on Allergy Apparel’s Facebook Group Page and blog and it seems that a lot of parents will remain with Mylan’s EpiPen®.
In response to my question of EpiPen® or Auvi-Q™, one mom wrote, “Auvi-Q is no cheaper, we have the carriers fit for Epi-Pens (thank you!), and there's no necessary re-training or re-filling out forms.” In a world that is moving at light speed and has more activities than mentionable, in addition to constantly trying to keep our children safe, I can certainly understand and appreciate her response.
And just a little side note, the new Auvi-Q™ injectors fit in most of the carriers that Allergy Apparel offers but if you would prefer a smaller carrier to accommodate your new Auvi-Q™, Allergy Apparel offers those too.
Will the Auvi-Q™ and Mylan’s EpiPen® promotions affect your decision? I would love to know!
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