Can't find or afford Auvi-Q? Learn about EpiPen, generic epinephrine auto-injectors, Adrenaclick, and Symjepi as alternatives for treating anaphylaxis.
If you or someone in your family has a severe allergy, having an epinephrine auto-injector on hand isn't optional — it's a matter of life and death. Auvi-Q is a popular choice thanks to its compact size and voice-guided instructions, but there are situations where you might not be able to fill your Auvi-Q prescription.
Maybe your insurance won't cover it. Maybe you need a replacement urgently and can't wait for home delivery. Maybe cost is the issue. Whatever the reason, the important thing is this: never go without epinephrine.
Here's what Auvi-Q is, how it works, and what alternatives are available if you can't get it right now.
Auvi-Q is a brand-name epinephrine auto-injector made by Kaléo. It's FDA-approved for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis — severe allergic reactions that can cause difficulty breathing, a dangerous drop in blood pressure, swelling, hives, and even death if not treated quickly.
Auvi-Q comes in three dose strengths:
It's unique because of its credit-card-sized design and electronic voice instructions that walk you through each step of the injection. For a deep dive into how this medication works, read our article on how Auvi-Q works.
All epinephrine auto-injectors — including Auvi-Q and its alternatives — contain the same active ingredient: Epinephrine (also called adrenaline). Epinephrine is a naturally occurring hormone that works on multiple body systems simultaneously:
These combined effects can reverse anaphylaxis within minutes. The injection is given in the outer thigh (through clothing if needed) and the effects last about 10–20 minutes — enough time to get to an emergency room. For more details, see our full guide on what Auvi-Q is and how it's used.
All of these alternatives deliver epinephrine for anaphylaxis. The key differences are in the device design, technique, price, and availability. Always talk to your doctor before switching.
Manufacturer: Viatris (formerly Mylan)
Doses: 0.3 mg (EpiPen) and 0.15 mg (EpiPen Jr)
How it works: EpiPen is the most well-known epinephrine auto-injector. You remove the blue safety cap, press the orange tip against your outer thigh, and hold for several seconds. It does not have voice guidance like Auvi-Q.
Price: Retail price is approximately $650–$700 for a 2-pack without insurance. Coupons and savings programs can bring this down significantly.
Availability: Widely stocked at most pharmacies, though EpiPen has been affected by periodic shortages since 2018. Check current availability on Medfinder.
Best for: Patients who want the most widely recognized device and whose pharmacy stocks it.
Manufacturer: Viatris
Doses: 0.3 mg and 0.15 mg
How it works: This is the exact same device as the EpiPen, just sold under a generic label at a lower price. The injection technique is identical.
Price: Typically $300–$400 for a 2-pack with coupons. Some insurance plans cover it at a lower tier than brand-name EpiPen.
Availability: Available at most pharmacies, but has also been affected by the same shortages as brand-name EpiPen.
Best for: Patients looking for a more affordable version of EpiPen. This is often what pharmacies dispense when a generic prescription for epinephrine auto-injector is written.
Doses: 0.3 mg and 0.15 mg
How it works: Adrenaclick requires removing two caps before injection (one from each end), which is a different technique than EpiPen or Auvi-Q. Make sure you practice with the trainer device if switching to this option.
Price: The generic version is often the most affordable epinephrine auto-injector, ranging from $150–$300 for a 2-pack.
Availability: Available at many pharmacies. Note that Adrenaclick is not an automatic generic substitute for EpiPen — it requires a separate prescription.
Best for: Budget-conscious patients comfortable with a slightly different injection technique.
Doses: 0.3 mg and 0.15 mg
How it works: Symjepi is a prefilled syringe, not an auto-injector. You need to manually push the plunger to deliver the epinephrine. It's simpler in design but requires a bit more manual dexterity.
Price: Generally less expensive than EpiPen, though prices vary.
Availability: Available at some pharmacies, but not as widely stocked as EpiPen.
Best for: Patients comfortable with manual injection who want another option, especially when auto-injectors are in short supply.
Here are some questions to discuss with your doctor:
Before switching to an alternative, make sure you've explored all options for getting Auvi-Q:
For detailed tips, read our guide on how to find Auvi-Q in stock near you or learn about saving money on Auvi-Q.
The most important thing is that you have an unexpired epinephrine product on hand at all times. Auvi-Q is an excellent option with unique features like voice guidance and a compact design, but EpiPen, generic epinephrine auto-injectors, Adrenaclick, and Symjepi are all effective alternatives that deliver the same life-saving medication.
Talk to your doctor, check your insurance coverage, and use Medfinder to find whatever product works best for you. Never go without epinephrine — your life may depend on it.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Try Medfinder Concierge FreeMedfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
