The price reduction will be implemented from October 1. According to the company, the price cut will result in savings of around SEK 500 per month for patients, provided that pharmacies reduce their sales prices by the same amount.
The initiative is not unique to Sweden. Novo already announced significant price cuts in February this year in the important US market, where it is fighting for market share with its main competitor, Eli Lilly.
Good opportunity
"There are many things that play a role when we look at prices. But right now we have considered it to be a good opportunity," says Maria Ericson, head of social policy for Novo Sverige, when asked why the price adjustment did not happen earlier.
Maria Ericson cannot say how many patients will be affected by the price change. The aim, according to the company, is that more people with obesity can remain on treatment over time, as it has been shown that the cost can contribute to people quitting.
In parallel with the decision to lower the price, the process is underway regarding a possible approval from the Dental and Pharmaceutical Benefits Agency (TLV) for Wegovy to be included in the benefits system and subsidised for certain particularly vulnerable patient groups with obesity.
Ongoing process
TLV rejected an earlier application, which Novo subsequently appealed to the Administrative Court. The process then took a new turn when the company withdrew its appeal and subsequently submitted a new application to the authority.
It is an ongoing process and we have no information about when TLV will return, says Maria Ericson.
According to Maria Ericson, the application concerns a limited number of patients. She cannot answer whether the application also includes children.
