Vascepa Patient Assistance Program Basics
Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) offers financial help through the Vascepa Savings Card and the Amarin CAREs Foundation patient assistance program. The Savings Card provides copay reduction for commercially insured patients, while CAREs offers free medication for uninsured or underinsured patients meeting income guidelines.[1]
How Long Does the Vascepa Savings Card Last?
The Savings Card delivers instant copay savings—up to $70 per 90-day supply (maximum $300 per year) for eligible commercially insured patients. It activates for 48 months from the first use. After expiration, patients can request a new card via the program's website or by calling 1-877-VASCEPA.[1][2]
Duration of Free Medication via Amarin CAREs
Eligible patients receive Vascepa free for up to 12 months per approval. Reapply annually with updated financial and medical info. Approval depends on U.S. residency, household income at or below 400-500% of the federal poverty level (varies by household size), and lack of insurance coverage. No automatic renewals—each year requires full reapplication.[1][3]
Who Qualifies and Common Renewal Issues
- Savings Card: Commercial insurance only; excludes government programs like Medicare/Medicaid. Pharmacies verify eligibility.
- CAREs: Uninsured/underinsured; household income proof required. Denials often stem from income exceeding limits or incomplete apps.
Patients report delays in renewals if paperwork lags; apply 30-60 days before supply ends. Contact Amarin support at 1-877-827-2371 for status.[3]
Alternatives if Help Ends
Once assistance expires without renewal:
- Switch to generic icosapent ethyl (available since 2020 in some markets).
- Explore competitor programs like Lovaza savings (for similar EPA-only therapy).
- State assistance or GoodRx coupons cut costs to $200-400/month off-list ($400+).[4]
Sources
[1]: Vascepa Savings Program
[2]: Drugs.com Vascepa Savings Card
[3]: Amarin CAREs Foundation
[4]: GoodRx Icosapent Ethyl