The prefilled syringe, a rival of Mylan’s widely used EpiPen, is called Symjepi. The single-dose syringe is filled with epinephrine (0.3 mg Prefilled single dose syringe) and is used to life-threatening allergic reactions from insect stings, food, and medication allergies, according to the Associated Press.
Adamis claims that its Symjepi pen is easier to use than Mylan’s EpiPen and it is smaller, making it easier to fit into a purse or pocket. Most people with severe allergies usually carry a device with them wherever they go, often leaving one at school or their place of employment. The Symjepi device will come in a package containing two single-dose syringes.
In a press release, Dr. Dennis J. Carlo, President, and CEO of Adamis said: “We are very excited by this approval, and at the same time, are already preparing to submit our second NDA to the FDA. This second submission is for the junior version of Symjepi.”
Carlo added that with the anticipated lower cost, small size and user-friendly design, the Symjepi pen will be an attractive alternative to Mylan’s EpiPen. He also said the company was still in the process of looking for a distributor and is working on a price when the product goes on the market in the second half of this year.
There are other rival devices available, including Impax Laboratories Inc’s Adrenaclick device, being sold through CVS Health Corp’s drugstore chain for about $110 a pair. Privately held Kaleo earlier this year began marketing its Auvi-Q epinephrine auto-injector.
There is a rather unusual pricing strategy they have worked out with Sanofi SA, but it has met with little success. But Kaleo says it will provide their device free of charge to some consumers but will charge insurers $4,500, reports Reuters.
Right now, Mylan’s EpiPen two-pack sells for $630 to $700 without insurance while the new generic version retails for about $225 to $425. It will be interesting to find out what the new Symjepi two-pack is going to cost consumers.
