Eli Lilly announced plans Tuesday to offer less expensive versions of two of the company’s insulin pens, eight months after introducing a reduced-price liquid insulin.
State and federal lawmakers have criticized drug companies for a jump in insulin costs in recent years.
The company plans to sell discounted versions of Humalog Mix75/25 KwikPen and Junior Humalog Junior KwikPen for 50 percent less than current list price. Both pens will be available by mid-April. The insulin will carry a list price around $265 for a package of five.
Mike Mason, senior vice president of Connected Care and Insulins, said in a statement the company intended on working with insurance providers and the government "to work toward permanent solutions."
"The current healthcare system isn't working for everyone, causing a growing number of people with chronic conditions to struggle to afford their medicine," Mason said.
In a news release, Lilly said the discounted insulins are identical molecules to the branded versions. The company also says, because most insurance plans provide copays for chronic medicines that are lower than the list price, people should ask their pharmacists if these options reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Contact Darian at dbenson@wfyi.org or follow her on Twitter at @helloimdarian.