EpiPen Rival Set For Return

(RTTNews) - Auvi-Q, the rival for EpiPen, will be coming back in 2017, pharmaceutical company Kaleo announced on Wednesday.

Auvi-Q is a epinephrine injection used to treat life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in people who are at risk for or have a history of serious allergic reactions.

Auvi-Q was removed from the market last year because of manufacturing problems.

"At Kaleo, we are aware of the epinephrine auto-injector access and affordability challenges confronting patients. We have frequent conversations with patients, doctors, and advocacy groups to understand their concerns and are working to address these concerns in a way that benefits patients," the company said.

"Our goal is that any patient, regardless of insurance coverage, should have options when it comes to epinephrine auto-injectors, including the option to access AUVI-Q at an affordable price," the company added.

Mylan, the manufacturer of EpiPen, is facing a widespread outrage from lawmakers and the public after the company implemented sharp price increases for a pair of EpiPen auto-injectors to $608 from about $100 in 2008. Mylan had acquired the product in 2007.

Meanwhile, Kaleo has not provided any details on its pricing strategy.