Democrats push more drug makers to lower the price of inhalers WFTV [Video]

WASHINGTON D.C. — More than 27 million people are living with asthma in the U.S. including about four million children. But many of them are forced to ration their life-saving inhalers because they’re so expensive.

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Lawmakers say an inhaler can cost as much as $600 each if you don’t have insurance but the same brands cost just a fraction of that in Europe.

Anne Shoup is one of those millions with asthma. She said she can afford her medication, but with rising prices, that isn’t case for many Americans especially low-income families, minorities and seniors.

Many of them end up rationing their supply – which can be a matter of life and death.

“It’s really a medication you need to survive…and if you are struggling to breathe, then you know a rescue inhaler can save your life,” said Anne Shoup with Protect Our Care.

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