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EpiPen situation overseas
- 奏良 澁谷
- Jan 22
- 3 min read
EpiPens are used around the world as a life-saving tool for anaphylaxis, but there are significant differences in availability, regulations, and prices from country to country. Here, we compare the EpiPen situation in Japan and overseas, and introduce the challenges and current situation in each country.
1. Penetration rate and regulations in each country
Japan
• Distribution rate : Although the use of EpiPens is gradually increasing in Japan, it is still not sufficient.
Prescription requires a doctor's diagnosis and is primarily limited to people with severe allergies or a history of anaphylaxis.
• Regulation :
EpiPens are considered medicines and require a prescription.
While schools and public facilities are increasingly being equipped with emergency supplies, lack of training remains an issue.
America
• Prevalence : EpiPens are widely available in the United States, with many schools and workplaces having them.
Some states are passing legislation allowing non-healthcare personnel to use EpiPens.
• Regulation :
Some states also require schools and public buildings to keep EpiPens on hand.
It may be available without a doctor's prescription at some pharmacies (depending on the state).
Europe
• Prevalence : In countries such as the UK and France, EpiPens are relatively widespread and are increasingly being installed in educational institutions and workplaces.
In the UK in particular, schools are encouraged to keep EpiPens on hand.
• Regulation :
A doctor's prescription is required, but policies are being implemented to encourage wider use.
Australia
• Prevalence : Allergy awareness is high in Australia, and EpiPen prevalence tends to be high.
EpiPens are now mandatory in schools and childcare facilities.
• Regulation :
The government subsidizes the price of EpiPens, making them available at a relatively low price.
2. Price Issues
America's pricing problem
The price of EpiPens has been an issue in the United States for many years.
• Rising prices : The price of EpiPens increased dramatically in the 2010s, in some cases reaching approximately $600 (approximately 90,000 yen) for a set of two.
Cause :
Pharmaceutical companies' pricing issues.
Lack of alternative products or generic drugs.
• Solution :
In recent years, generic versions of EpiPen have appeared, and in some cases the price has been reduced to around $300 (approximately 45,000 yen).
Some states are considering legislation to cap prices.
Prices in Europe and Australia
• Europe : In the UK and France, the price of EpiPen is lower than in the US and may be subsidised under national health insurance programs.
• Australia : Thanks to government subsidies, EpiPens can be purchased at a low price (approximately $40-50 = 6,000-7,500 yen).
Prices in Japan
• Japan
In Japan, each tube costs around 6,000 to 10,000 yen, but this can be reduced by health insurance.
Although it is not as expensive as in the United States, the fact that it requires a doctor's prescription is a hurdle to its widespread use.
3. Challenges and efforts in promoting the use of EpiPens
assignment
1. Price burden : In the United States in particular, there is a serious problem of people who need medicines being unable to obtain them due to their high prices.
2. Lack of awareness : In many countries, there is not enough awareness about the existence of EpiPens or how to use them.
3. Lack of legal framework : In many countries, including Japan, it is not mandatory to install satellite cameras in schools and public facilities.
attempt
Price subsidies : Government subsidies, as in Australia, lower the barrier to acquisition.
Education and awareness : Increase opportunities for learning about the importance and use of EpiPens in schools and workplaces.
Policy improvements : Legislation will be put in place to encourage the stocking of EpiPens and a system will be introduced to make them easier to purchase at pharmacies.
summary
Although the spread of EpiPens and the issue of their price vary from country to country, promoting their use as a life-saving tool is an important theme around the world. In particular, Japan needs to create an environment in which more people can use EpiPens by learning from overseas examples and promoting awareness and establishing laws.
