[Debbie]

Following on from the allergy thread.
My son needs Epi-pens, the idea is he never uses them but he carries 2 with him at all times in case of anaphylaxis caused by allergy.
His GP gave him his usual script for 4 pens (this is what he had in the UK). Our local chemist tells me that I don't need a script, you can just buy these, how can that be? they are a powerful drug. They also tell me they aren't subsidised and cost $151.50 each:exit and they only last about 10-12 mths.

Well as Diny says they are a needs must item and I would buy them no matter what the cost but...

I don't know enough about how the phamacy (sp) business works here. Is it worth shopping around or do all drugs have a fixed price?

If they don't need a script is it possible for me to buy them over the internet (only if I find a source I'm confident with). It's my son's life on the line so Im not looking going to go for any suspect cheep options but if it's worth doing some research and shopping around I'm happy to do the work.

Debbie

[jubjub]

Just had a quick look on the one pharmacy website that I know about, and they are more expensive..

http://www.netpharmacy.co.nz/64/group/582/page/1/Epipen

I would ring and check, like you say though the cost does not matter, as they are an essential, but if you can save a bit, then its worth a couple of calls.

[sizzlingbadger]

How old is your son ? I would imagine that there should be an alternative that is subsidised :( It may be worth having a chat with the pharmacist and the doctor again especially as it's needed.

[nippa&pippa]

Try contact allergy NZ about this, they might able to help you on that.

[Debbie]

Thanks all, Im waiting to hear back from allergy NZ and I'll have a chat about viable generic alternatives with the chemist.
Debbie

[nippa&pippa]

Let me know how you get on, as may need one for my husband even he never had one...*touch the wood* he had been very lucky so far.