Genentech Launches Direct-to-Consumer Program, Cuts Flu Vaccine Price by Nearly 70 Percent

Roche Group’s Genentech has joined the growing ranks of pharmaceutical companies selling prescription drugs directly to patients by making its Xofluza antiviral flu medicine available through online pharmacies.

Genentech’s Direct-to-Patient (DTP) program allows patients to order the single-dose vaccine from Alto Pharmacy, Amazon Pharmacy, and Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs, San Francisco-based Genentech said on Oct. 16. Patients can order the vaccine for $50, a 70-percent reduction from its list price, Genentech said.