Cosentyx Becomes First Novartis Medicine Offered at 55% Discount Through New DTP Model

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(IN BRIEF) Novartis will launch a direct-to-patient (DTP) platform in the US on November 1, 2025, starting with Cosentyx, which will be offered at a 55% discount off list price for cash-paying patients. Cosentyx, a biologic approved for multiple immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, has been used globally by more than 1.8 million patients since its 2015 launch. Novartis President US Victor Bultó said the program is designed to provide patients with more direct access to net pricing while reducing systemic barriers. The DTP platform serves as proof-of-concept for a new distribution model, with potential expansion to other Novartis medicines and a direct-to-employer option. Existing patient support and assistance programs remain available, ensuring multiple pathways to affordability and access.

(PRESS RELEASE) BASEL, 29-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ —  Novartis (SWX: NOVN), a Swiss multinational pharmaceutical company, has announced the launch of a new direct-to-patient (DTP) platform in the United States, beginning November 1, 2025, with its first offering focused on Cosentyx® (secukinumab). Through the initiative, select units of the company’s top-selling US medicine will be available to cash-paying patients at a 55% discount from the list price, making specialty care more affordable and accessible outside traditional distribution channels.

Cosentyx is a biologic treatment approved by the FDA for several immune-mediated inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and psoriatic arthritis. With more than 17 years of clinical research and real-world use among 1.8 million patients globally since 2015, it has become a trusted therapy for those managing chronic inflammatory diseases.

Victor Bultó, President of Novartis US, said the initiative reflects a broader shift in how the company aims to connect directly with patients: “Innovation at Novartis is not only about scientific breakthroughs—it’s also about how we deliver medicines. In the US, the complexity of the system can prevent patients from accessing therapies affordably. This platform is our first step toward providing patients with net prices more directly, removing barriers, and creating a healthcare system that works better for Americans.”

The DTP platform is intended as a proof-of-concept model for specialty medicines. By offering prices comparable to savings typically negotiated by insurers and pharmacy benefit managers, Novartis aims to demonstrate the potential for a more transparent and patient-centric approach. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand DTP access to other appropriate medicines in its portfolio and is also exploring a direct-to-employer model, which would enable large businesses to purchase Cosentyx—and potentially other therapies—on behalf of employees at reduced costs.

This new option complements existing Novartis patient support programs. US patients with commercial insurance may qualify for as little as $0 out-of-pocket costs through assistance programs, and those facing delays or coverage denials can access interim support for up to two years at no cost. For patients who are uninsured, underinsured, or covered by government insurance and meet eligibility requirements, the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation, Inc., an independent nonprofit, continues to provide Cosentyx free of charge.

By broadening affordability pathways and testing new direct distribution models, Novartis is positioning itself at the forefront of efforts to redefine access to specialty medicines in the US healthcare system.

Disclaimer
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References

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