DIY EpiPencil Challenges Mylan's $600 EpiPen Price Hike
Pharmaceutical giant Mylan sparked controversy in 2014 when it dramatically increased the price of EpiPen, a life-saving epinephrine injector, to over $600. This move came seven years after Mylan acquired the rights to the drug. Meanwhile, a group known as the Four Thieves Vinegar Collective has been making headlines for its efforts to make medication more accessible.
The collective, which is associated with a decentralized network focused on open-source pharmaceutical knowledge, has been working on formulas for various drugs. These include GSK744 (Cabotegravir), an HIV treatment, abortion drugs mifepristone and misoprostol, and Sovaldi, a hepatitis C drug. Their most notable creation is the 'EpiPencil', a DIY epinephrine injector that costs just $30, a stark contrast to the soaring prices of the EpiPen.
The collective released a YouTube video detailing how to make the EpiPencil, and they plan to release more 'recipes' for drugs in the future. Michael Laufer, a spokesperson for the group, believes their work is a real tool for those in need. They are currently planning to release an updated version of their Apothecary Micro Lab near the beginning of the year. However, the FDA has warned against using unapproved prescription drugs for personal use, citing safety and effectiveness concerns.
The price increase of EpiPen, along with the collective's efforts to make medication more accessible, has highlighted the ongoing debate about drug pricing and accessibility. While the collective's work aims to provide affordable alternatives, the use of unapproved drugs raises important safety considerations.
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