Cosentyx (secukinumab)
Patient Assistance Program Guide — Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)
Do You Qualify?
Income
Up to $75,300 for a single person
Insurance
Uninsured, underinsured, or Medicare Part D patients who meet specific financial and clinical criteria; generally excludes those with commercial insurance coverage (who should use the copay card).
Residency
U.S. resident with valid address in the United States, Puerto Rico, or US Virgin Islands
Income Limits (500% FPL)
Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation typically applies a 500% FPL threshold for specialty medications like Cosentyx.
Based on 2025 HHS Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
# How to Get Cosentyx for Free or Reduced Cost Through the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)
Who Qualifies for the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)?
If you cannot afford Cosentyx and do not have commercial insurance that covers it, you may qualify to receive it at no cost through the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF). This program provides free Cosentyx to eligible patients who meet income and insurance requirements. For a single-person household, your annual income must be at or below $75,300 to qualify. In general, you must be uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicare Part D — patients with active commercial insurance that adequately covers Cosentyx are typically directed to the manufacturer's savings card program instead. If you meet the financial and clinical criteria, NPAF may cover your Cosentyx at no charge.
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About Cosentyx (secukinumab)
Cosentyx (secukinumab) is a prescription biologic medication manufactured by Novartis. It belongs to a drug class called interleukin-17A (IL-17A) inhibitors. Cosentyx is FDA-approved to treat several inflammatory conditions, including plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Because Cosentyx is a biologic — meaning it is derived from living cells rather than chemical synthesis — it is significantly more expensive than traditional medications. Without insurance or assistance, the out-of-pocket cost can reach tens of thousands of dollars per year, making programs like NPAF essential for many patients who depend on this treatment.
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Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown
NPAF uses a threshold of approximately 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to determine income eligibility. The income limits below apply based on your total household size:
| Household Size | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $75,300 |
| 2 persons | $102,200 |
| 3 persons | $129,100 |
| 4 persons | $156,000 |
Your income is typically verified using your most recent federal tax return, W-2, or 1099 forms. If your income has changed recently, three months of recent pay stubs may also be accepted as documentation.
If your household income falls above these limits, you may not qualify for NPAF in its standard form. However, you are not without options — see the "Alternatives If You Don't Qualify" section below for other ways to reduce your costs. It is also worth calling NPAF directly at (800) 277-2254 to discuss your specific situation, as household size and other circumstances can sometimes affect the review process.
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Insurance Requirements Explained
Your insurance status plays a major role in whether NPAF is the right program for you:
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Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for free Cosentyx through NPAF:
1. Review eligibility requirements. Before starting, confirm that your income and insurance status align with the criteria described above. Visit https://www.cosentyx.com/financial-support to review current program details.
2. Gather your documents. You will need:
- A completed NPAF application form (with both your signature and your prescriber's signature)
- Proof of household income (most recent tax return, W-2, or 1099 — or three months of pay stubs if your income has changed)
- A valid prescription for Cosentyx from your doctor
3. Get the application form. Download or complete the application online at https://www.novartis.com/us-en/patients-and-caregivers/patient-assistance/novartis-patient-assistance-foundation-inc. Your doctor's office can also initiate the application on your behalf.
4. Submit your application. You have multiple ways to submit:
- Online: Through the application portal linked above
- By phone: Call (800) 277-2254 for assistance
- By fax: Send completed documents to (855) 817-2711
5. Wait for a decision. Processing typically takes 7 to 10 business days after all required documents are received.
6. Follow up if needed. If you have not heard back after 10 business days, call (800) 277-2254 to check your application status.
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What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery
After submitting a complete application, most patients receive a decision within 7 to 10 business days. You or your doctor's office will be notified of the approval decision. If approved, Cosentyx will be shipped directly to your home address — you do not need to pick it up at a pharmacy or your prescriber's office. There is nothing you need to do at the time of delivery beyond being available to receive the shipment. Your enrollment in NPAF is not permanent — annual reauthorization is required. Before your benefit year ends, you will need to resubmit updated income documentation and a renewed prescription to continue receiving the medication at no cost.
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Alternatives If You Don't Qualify
If you do not meet NPAF's eligibility criteria, these options may help:
1. Biosimilars: Otulfi is an FDA-approved biosimilar to Cosentyx. Biosimilars are typically lower in cost than the original biologic and may be covered differently by your insurance plan. Ask your doctor if Otulfi is appropriate for your condition.
2. Cosentyx Savings Card (insured patients): If you have commercial insurance, you may qualify for the Cosentyx Connect savings card, which can reduce your out-of-pocket copay costs. Apply at https://www.cosentyx.com/cosentyx-connect.
3. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAP): Many states offer their own prescription assistance programs, particularly for Medicare beneficiaries or lower-income residents. Eligibility and benefits vary by state. Contact your state's department of health or aging to learn what may be available to you.
4. NeedyMeds.org: This free, independent database lists hundreds of patient assistance programs, copay cards, and drug discount options. Visit www.needymeds.org to search by medication name at no cost.
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*This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Eligibility determinations are made solely by Novartis. Program terms may change — verify current requirements at [https://www.cosentyx.com/financial-support](https://www.cosentyx.com/financial-support) before applying.*
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Documents You'll Need
If You Don't Qualify for the Assistance Program
Biosimilar / Generic Alternatives
FDA-approved alternatives to Cosentyx: Otulfi. Ask your prescriber if one of these is clinically appropriate for your condition.
Manufacturer Savings Card (for insured patients)
Novartis offers a savings card that may reduce your out-of-pocket cost if you have commercial insurance. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist for current savings card details.
Common Questions
Yes. Unlike some manufacturer assistance programs, the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation does accept patients with Medicare Part D coverage, as long as you meet the income and clinical eligibility requirements. Call (800) 277-2254 to confirm your specific situation.
Application processing typically takes 7 to 10 business days once all required documents are submitted. After approval, your medication will be shipped directly to your home. Allow additional time for shipping after your approval notice is received.
Yes. NPAF requires annual reauthorization. Before your benefit period ends, you will need to submit updated proof of income and a renewed prescription from your doctor. Watch for any renewal notices and plan ahead to avoid a gap in your medication supply.
If you are self-employed or your income has recently changed, you may be able to submit three months of recent pay stubs or other documentation in place of a tax return. Contact NPAF at (800) 277-2254 to discuss which documents are appropriate for your situation.
If your income is just above the published threshold, it is still worth calling NPAF at (800) 277-2254. Household size and certain financial circumstances may affect how your application is reviewed. You can also explore biosimilar options or the Cosentyx Connect savings card as alternatives.
Ready to Apply for Cosentyx Assistance?
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