In the midst of an opioid crisis, drug maker spikes the price of the antidote

Public health officials describe the nation’s opioid epidemic as the worst drug crisis in history. Meanwhile, a drug company that makes the life-saving antidote is accused of trying to profit from tragedy.

Virginia-based Kaleo Pharmaceuticals makes Evzio, a self-injector used to deliver naloxone, which counters the effects of heroin and prescription painkillers. In Georgia, Virginia and other states, lawmakers are rushing to make Evzio available without a prescription.

While it may be more readily available, Evzio commands a steep price. In 2014, an Evzio twin-pack sold for $690. Today, that same twin-pack costs $4,500.

Company officials say the 2016 version of Evzio is worth it because it is a “talking device” that guides users through the injection process. They also argue the reported price is not what most consumers pay out-of-pocket.

Experts see no justification for the spike.

“There’s absolutely nothing that warrants them charging what they’re charging,” Leo Beletsky, an associate professor of law and health sciences at Northeastern University, told Kaiser Health News.

Consumers are outraged and so are members of Congress. Thirty-one U.S. Senators (all Democrats) sent a letter to the company seeking an explanation.

“This drug is now in the hands of first responders and families struggling with substance use disorder across the country,” the senators wrote. “Such a steep rise in the cost of this drug threatens to price out families and communities that depend on naloxone to save lives.”

Kaleo CEO Spencer Williamson told the Washington Examiner his company received the letter and is in talks with lawmakers.

Are you or someone you know struggling with higher prescription drug costs? Share your story and ideas for a solution with Voices for Affordable Health.