Extavia

Indicated For

relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Guide: How to Get Extavia at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation helps patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) access Extavia (interferon beta-1b) at reduced or no cost. Extavia is an important injectable medication that helps manage MS by reducing the frequency and severity of relapses. If you're struggling to afford this medication, this program may be able to help you get the treatment you need. ## About Extavia Extavia is a prescription interferon medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. It works by helping your immune system manage MS symptoms. Because it's a specialized biologic medication, it can be expensive—often costing thousands of dollars per month. This assistance program exists to ensure that cost doesn't prevent you from getting the medication your doctor has prescribed. ## Who Can Apply? You may qualify for assistance if you meet these criteria: - Your doctor has prescribed Extavia for your MS treatment - You are a U.S. resident - You are uninsured or underinsured (meaning your insurance doesn't adequately cover Extavia) - Your household income falls within the program's eligibility limits - You cannot afford your medication even with insurance coverage The program considers your specific financial situation, so even if you have insurance, you may still qualify if Extavia remains unaffordable for you. ## Income Eligibility The Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation uses flexible income guidelines that vary based on your household size and individual circumstances. While specific income thresholds vary and are evaluated case-by-case, the program generally serves patients with limited financial resources who cannot afford their medications. | Household Size | General Income Range* | |---|---| | 1 person | Up to ~$25,000-$30,000/year | | 2 people | Up to ~$35,000-$40,000/year | | 3 people | Up to ~$45,000-$50,000/year | | 4 people | Up to ~$55,000-$60,000/year | | 5+ people | Varies by size and circumstances | *These are approximate ranges. The program evaluates each application individually based on your specific financial situation, expenses, and medical needs. Even if your income exceeds these ranges, you may still qualify if you have significant medical expenses or other financial hardships. ## Insurance Requirements You must be either: - **Uninsured** (no health insurance coverage), OR - **Underinsured** (you have insurance, but it doesn't cover Extavia adequately, or your copayments and out-of-pocket costs are unaffordable) If you have Medicare or Medicaid, you may still apply if those programs don't adequately cover your Extavia costs. ## What Documents You'll Need Before you start your application, gather these items: 1. **Completed Patient Application Form** - Available on the Novartis PAP website 2. **Completed Healthcare Provider Form** - Your doctor must complete and sign this section 3. **Proof of Income** - Recent documents showing your household income, such as: - Recent tax returns (2-3 months old) - Pay stubs from your employer - Social Security or disability benefit statements - Unemployment documentation - Any other income sources 4. **Proof of Residency** - A document showing you live in the United States, such as: - Utility bill - Lease or mortgage statement - Driver's license 5. **Insurance Information** - Current insurance card or proof that you're uninsured 6. **Prescription** - A valid prescription from your healthcare provider for Extavia Having these documents ready will speed up your application process. ## How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions ### Step 1: Visit the Program Website Go to **https://pap.novartis.com** to access the application. The website provides the official forms and may allow you to apply online or download printable forms. ### Step 2: Complete the Patient Application Fill out the patient section of the application with your: - Full name and contact information - Date of birth - Household size and composition - Monthly household income from all sources - Current insurance status - Information about your MS diagnosis and Extavia prescription Be honest and complete in your answers. The program uses this information to determine eligibility and the appropriate assistance level. ### Step 3: Have Your Doctor Complete the Provider Section Give your healthcare provider a copy of the provider form. Your doctor must: - Confirm that Extavia is medically necessary for your treatment - Provide your diagnosis and relevant medical history - Sign and date the form - Include their contact information You can ask your doctor's office to complete this form during an appointment or mail it to them with a prepaid return envelope. ### Step 4: Gather Supporting Documents Collect all the proof of income, residency, and insurance documents listed above. Make copies—keep originals for your records. ### Step 5: Submit Your Complete Application The Novartis PAP website (https://pap.novartis.com) will provide instructions for submitting your application. You can typically: - Apply online through the secure portal - Mail physical copies of all documents to the address provided - Use other submission methods listed on their website Make sure to submit everything together. Incomplete applications may take longer to process or may be denied. ### Step 6: Wait for a Decision The program typically processes applications within **4 weeks**. You'll receive notification about your eligibility by mail or phone. ## Timeline and Medication Delivery - **Application Processing**: Approximately 4 weeks from the time the program receives your complete application - **Notification**: You'll be contacted with the decision - **Medication Delivery**: Once approved, Extavia is typically shipped directly to your home or to your healthcare provider's office - **Next Steps**: The program will provide instructions on how to refill your prescription and maintain your assistance ## Reauthorization Your assistance is **not permanent**. You'll need to reauthorize your enrollment annually. The program will send you a reminder when it's time to renew. When you reauthorize, you'll need to: 1. Submit an updated application form 2. Provide current proof of income 3. Confirm your continued need for Extavia 4. Update any changes in your household or insurance situation Renewal is usually faster than initial approval since the program already has your information. ## What If You're Denied? If your application is denied, you have options: 1. **Request a Detailed Explanation** - Contact the program to understand why you were denied 2. **Appeal** - You may be able to provide additional information or reapply if your circumstances have changed 3. **Explore Other Resources**: - Contact Novartis directly at their patient relations line for other assistance options - Ask your healthcare provider about samples or other manufacturer programs - Contact the MS Society for additional resources and support programs - Look into state prescription assistance programs - Check whether you qualify for government programs like Medicaid or Medicare Extra Help ## Important Reminders - **Keep Your Provider Informed**: Let your doctor know you've applied for assistance. They may have insights into other resources - **Don't Skip Doses**: While waiting for approval, contact your healthcare provider about temporary solutions - **Update Your Information**: If your income, household, or insurance changes, notify the program - **Keep Documents**: Maintain copies of everything you submit - **Ask Questions**: The Novartis PAP website has additional resources and may have a patient support line with answers to your specific questions ## Legal Disclaimer This guide provides general information about the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation program for Extavia. Program eligibility, requirements, and benefits may change. The information provided is accurate as of the date of publication but is not guaranteed. For the most current and complete information, visit https://pap.novartis.com or contact the program directly through their website. This guide is not a guarantee of assistance or approval. Each application is evaluated individually based on medical necessity, financial hardship, and program guidelines.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026