Walmart launches private-brand analog insulin ReliOn NovoLog
Walmart is looking to make waves in the diabetes space with the first-ever private-brand analog insulin. Walmart's ReliOn NovoLog was announced Wednesday, with executives noting that the insulin offering includes analog insulin vials for $72.88 and FlexPens for $85.88 — offering savings of between 58% and 72% off the cash price of branded insulin products.
The new private label ReliOn NovoLog Insulin (insulin aspart) injection, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, will be available in Walmart pharmacies this week and Sam’s Club pharmacies in mid-July across the United States.
ReliOn NovoLog is a rapid-acting insulin analog used to control high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes. Customers will need a prescription in order to purchase the products and should always consult with their doctor regarding their diabetes management.
“We know many people with diabetes struggle to manage the financial burden of this condition, and we are focused on helping by providing affordable solutions. We also know this is a condition that disproportionately impacts underserved populations," Dr. Cheryl Pegus, executive vice president of Walmart health and wellness, said in a press briefing announcing the insulin. “With ReliOn NovoLog insulin, we’re adding a high-quality medication for diabetes to the already affordable ReliOn line of products and continuing our commitment to improve access and lowering cost of care.” She also said that Walmart is a destination for affordable diabetes resources, including blood glucose monitors, lancets and other diabetes management essentials in the ReliOn portfolio.
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Warren Moore, vice president of Walmart health and wellness, said that a growing number of people with diabetes will see savings from its insulin offering, particularly Black and Hispanic patients, who are twice as likely to be diagnosed with diabetes as other groups.
"Every 21 seconds, someone in the United States is diagnosed with diabetes. Now they can access an affordable treatment," Moore said. "These savings go directly back into the pockets of our customers. Our customers with diabetes can manage their condition with a quality affordable treatment."
Moore also pointed out that today 90% of the population is located within 10 miles of Walmart. "There's a saying that your zip code is more important than your genetic code. Customers do have a Walmart or a Sam's Club pharmacy. By assuring our pharmacies have innovative affordable products, we are one step closer to reducing health disparities in communities," he said.
Tracey Brown, CEO of the American Diabetes Association, said the move by Walmart was a welcome one, given the high cost of living with diabetes.
“Diabetes often comes with high medical costs, estimated around $9,601 per person per year," Brown said. "We welcome all affordable solutions that make diabetes management more accessible to millions of Americans living with diabetes. We encourage everyone to ask their healthcare provider questions to better understand what the right and affordable treatment is for their unique medical needs.”
The ReliOn NovoLog analog insulin offering adds to Walmart’s history of introducing innovative solutions that increase access to quality, affordable healthcare resources, including its $4 generic prescription program launched more than a decade ago.