Allergy advocate group 'absolutely delighted' after Pharmac announces full funding for EpiPen auto-injectors

Aotearoa's drug buying agency has announced it will fully fund the EpiPen brand of adrenaline auto-injectors from early 2023 - and one advocacy group says it'll "make a huge difference".

Pharmac announced the EpiPen will be funded for anyone who has previously experienced severe anaphylaxis or anyone who is at "significant risk".

Director Lisa Williams said the funding will "improve the quality of life for thousands".

"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."

Allergy New Zealand chief executive Mark Dixon said he is "absolutely delighted" with Pharmac's funding announcement.

"It is the best news for New Zealand's allergy sufferers in the more than 40 years that Allergy NZ has been representing them."

Dixon said Kiwis living with serious allergies have had to pay between $120 to $350 for EpiPens, which can last between 12 to 18 months.

"The cost has meant this lifesaving medication has been out of reach for many people with severe allergies."

In a statement, Health Minister Andrew Little said the funding is thanks to "a major increase in the budget".

"This [funding] decision will make a considerable difference to people's lives and that of their whānau and caregivers."

The EpiPen brand of adrenaline auto-injectors will be funded from February 1, 2023.