Extavia

Indicated For

relapsing multiple sclerosis

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Extavia (interferon beta-1b) at Low or No Cost Extavia (interferon beta-1b) is a prescription medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It helps reduce the frequency of relapses and slow the progression of physical disabilities associated with MS. The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** offers Extavia at low or no cost to eligible patients who meet specific income, residency, and insurance criteria.[1][2][3] ## Who Qualifies for the NPAF Extavia Program? To qualify, you must: - Live in the **United States or a U.S. territory**.[2][5] - Have **limited or no prescription insurance coverage** (uninsured or underinsured who cannot afford the medication).[1][2][7] - Meet the program's **income guidelines**, which are typically based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), often ranging from **200-400% FPL**. These limits vary by medication, household size, state of residence, and are higher for Alaska and Hawaii.[1][5] - Have a **valid prescription** for Extavia from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider treating you on an outpatient basis.[2][5] **Important**: Check exact eligibility for Extavia at www.PAP.Novartis.com, as income thresholds are product-specific.[2][3] ## About Extavia (interferon beta-1b) Extavia is a **subcutaneous injectable** form of interferon beta-1b, a disease-modifying therapy for MS. It is administered every other day and works by modulating the immune system to reduce inflammation and nerve damage in the brain and spinal cord. Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, injection site reactions, and liver enzyme elevations. Always follow your doctor's instructions for use, storage (refrigerate, do not freeze), and monitoring. This program provides the medication free or at low cost but does not cover other MS-related expenses.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown NPAF uses household income based on your most recent federal tax return (Form 1040, first two pages). Household size matches your tax return dependents. Exact FPL percentages for Extavia are not publicly listed and vary—visit www.PAP.Novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254 for your specific limits.[1][2][5] Here's a general example table based on typical 400% FPL guidelines (2026 estimates; confirm current FPL at ASPE.hhs.gov): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (400% FPL, Contiguous US) | |----------------|-----------------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | | 3 | ~$102,000 | | 4 | ~$123,000 | *Notes*: Limits are lower for some products (e.g., 200-300% FPL). Alaska/Hawaii: +25-40%. Provide proof if not filing taxes.[1][5] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients** qualify if they meet other criteria.[7] - **Underinsured** may qualify if insurance denies coverage (submit Prior Authorization denial or appeal outcome) or if copays are unaffordable.[1][2] - Submit **front/back copies of all insurance cards** (primary, secondary, prescription). Medicare patients often ineligible if they have drug coverage, but check specifics.[1][2][4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com to confirm Extavia qualifies and review income limits.[2][3][5] 2. **Download Application**: Get the form from www.PAP.Novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm EST).[3][4] 3. **Complete Patient Section**: Fill in personal info, household size, income, insurance details. Sign and date.[1][2] 4. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income: First 2 pages of latest 1040 tax return (or contact NPAF if not required to file).[1][5] - Proof of residency: Not always specified, but include if requested (e.g., utility bill).[1] - Insurance cards (front/back).[1][2] - Any PA denial letters.[1] 5. **Physician Completes Their Section**: Doctor signs application, provides prescription, and authorizes info release.[2][4][5] 6. **Submit**: Fax to **1-855-817-2711** or mail to **NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216** (or current PO Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029—confirm latest).[1][4][5][9] **Tip**: Incomplete apps delay or deny processing. Double-check everything![1][2][4] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Up to **4 weeks** for a decision letter (or text if opted in).[3][5] - If approved, medication ships free to your **home or doctor's office**.[1] - **Reauthorization**: Required annually or as specified—resubmit updated docs.[1] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact NPAF at 1-800-277-2254 for reasons and next steps.[3][6] - **Other Programs**: Check NeedyMeds.org, RxAssist.org, or MS-specific aid like the MSAA Helpline. - **Manufacturer Copay Cards**: Novartis may offer for commercially insured (not via NPAF). - **State Programs**: Medicaid, ADAP for MS. - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or similar grants. - No biosimilars listed for Extavia.[1][6] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available NPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility, guidelines, and processes can change—always verify at www.PAP.Novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254. NPAF does not guarantee approval. Consult your doctor for medical advice. Not affiliated with Novartis.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026