Watch CBS News

New York Attorney General Investigates EpiPen Manufacturer Amid Price Increase

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSMiami/AP) — Mylan Pharmaceuticals is under investigation amid criticism for its steep price increases of its emergency allergy shot - EpiPen.

New York's Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said Tuesday that a preliminary review shows the company "may have inserted potentially anticompetitive terms" into sales contracts with schools.

EpiPens are used in emergencies to treat severe allergic reactions to insect bites and foods like nuts that can lead to anaphylactic shock.

The price has grown to $608 for a two-pack, up more than 500 percent since 2007. The drugmaker says it will launch a generic version that will cost $300.

Canonsburg, Pennsylvania-based Mylan N.V. says more than 700,000 free EpiPens have been distributed to over 65,000 schools, and it has dropped a previous purchase restriction for schools that wanted more at discounts.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.