Those in Central with severe allergies have had a wish granted in time for Christmas: auto adrenalin injectors are to be funded from February.

One Alexandra mum, who has a child with severe allergies, said her whānau has to buy two or more EpiPens each year at approximately $140 each.

She was so happy when she heard the news she “almost cried”.

“It’s not only going to save money but it shows they’re taking [severe allergies] seriously.”

Te Pātaka Whaioranga (Pharmac) confirmed the EpiPen brand of adrenaline auto injectors will be funded from February 1, 2023, which will benefit thousands of New Zealanders.

Pharmac director of operations Lisa Williams said adrenaline auto-injectors will be funded for anyone who has previously experienced a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, or anyone who is at significant risk.

“Funding adrenaline auto-injectors will improve the quality of life for thousands of individuals who have allergies, their caregivers and whānau. We estimate that there will be around 12,000 people accessing adrenaline auto-injectors in the first year of funding, increasing to 17,000 people per year after five years,” Lisa said.

Pharmac said feedback from consultation has been implemented to allow access criteria applications for funding (which includes assessment of anaphylaxis risk) by any relevant practitioner rather than by a specialist. 

“This better reflects the multidisciplinary nature of our healthcare system and will support more equitable access to adrenaline auto-injectors for those who need them.”

Allergy New Zealand chief executive Mark Dixon said his organisation was delighted with the decision. 

Allergy NZ chief executive officer Mark Dixon

“We know the hugely positive impact it will make on the lives of the thousands living with the risk of anaphylaxis… we look forward to working with Pharmac to ensure all communities have equal access and knowledge to benefit from this decision.”

Eight submissions have been made to Pharmac for the funding of adrenaline auto injectors over the past 20 years.  

Previously a campaign called FundaPen2, launched in February 2022 by Allergy NZ and Pub Charity (following the first one in 2019) delivered 3,355 free EpiPens to those with severe allergies in New Zealand. 

When FundaPen2 was made public the Facebook page received more than 100,000 hits in the first 24 hours - indicating widespread public interest in the medication. 

In Australia and the United Kingdom EpiPens are funded for those with severe allergies. 

Allergies are the most common chronic health condition in the world, and up to a third of the New Zealand population will have an allergy of some form or other, according to Allergy NZ’s website.

Brush up on health advice around using an EpiPen here.