CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the  incorporation by reference in the  registration  statement of
Scios Inc.,  on Form S-8 (File No.  333-56269)  of our report dated  January 30,
1999 on our audits of the  consolidated  financial  statements of Scios Inc. and
its  subsidiaries as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the years ended December
31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, which report is included in the Company's Annual Report
on Form 10-K.




                                                     PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP




San Jose, California
March 25, 1999



                                 EXHIBIT 23.1