Washington, D.C. – On behalf of the more than 60 million Americans with asthma and allergies – many of whom depend on life-saving medications – the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) applauds Senators Chuck Grassley and Ron Wyden for holding hearings on drug pricing in America. This series of hearings demonstrates the senators’ commitment to exploring the problem of overpriced medications in America.

We particularly thank Senator Grassley for highlighting the cost of epinephrine auto-injectors in his statement. It is estimated that 16.2 million Americans are at risk for anaphylaxis and need epinephrine. It is the only proven method available to treat anaphylaxis – a severe allergic reaction which can be fatal. For these patients, having access to epinephrine is a literal matter of life and death.

“The consistent increase of medication costs is demonstrative of a broken system in which patients who are dependent on these drugs carry unnecessary burden,” Kenneth Mendez, AAFA President and CEO states. “It is our hope that these hearings will require transparency from drug manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).”

AAFA is encouraged that the Senate is taking this problem to task and looks forward to its resolution.

For media inquiries, contact:
Angel Waldron, Director of Communications
202-974-1223
awaldron@aafa.org