Novartis declines to seek reimbursement for IgAN drug in Canada

Novartis has decided not to seek reimbursement for its drug Vanrafia in Canada, despite receiving approval from Health Canada. The decision means the medication, which can slow the progression of Immunoglobulin gA nephropathy (IgAN), will not be available to Canadian patients.

IgAN is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the kidneys and can lead to end-stage kidney disease. While several FDA-approved medications for the condition are available in the United States, none are currently available in Canada.

A Novartis spokesperson stated that the company determined the likelihood of successfully securing reimbursement under the current Canadian access environment was limited. Medical professionals have noted that this is part of a growing trend where Canadians have access to only about 18 percent of innovative medicines available globally.