What Are the VASCEPA Patient Assistance Requirements?
VASCEPA (icosapent ethyl) offers patient assistance programs through its manufacturer, Amarin Pharma, to help eligible uninsured or underinsured patients access the drug at low or no cost. The primary program is the VASCEPA Savings Card for commercially insured patients and a separate Patient Assistance Program (PAP) for those without insurance.[1]
Who Qualifies for the VASCEPA Savings Card?
This coupon-style card targets commercially insured adults. Key requirements:
- Prescription for VASCEPA from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider.
- Active private or commercial health insurance covering VASCEPA (not government programs like Medicare, Medicaid, or VA).
- Household income up to 400% of the federal poverty level (FPL), or if income exceeds this but insurance denies coverage.
- U.S. resident (or Puerto Rico).
- Not valid for patients in certain states like Massachusetts or where prohibited by law.
Eligible patients pay as little as $9 per 30-day supply (max $18 fill), capped at 12 fills per year.[1][2]
Requirements for the Free VASCEPA Patient Assistance Program
For uninsured, underinsured, or those with government insurance facing high costs:
- U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Household income at or below 400% FPL (e.g., $60,000 for a single person, $124,800 for a family of four in 2024).
- No prescription drug coverage, or coverage that doesn't pay for VASCEPA.
- Not enrolled in hospice or long-term care.
- Doctor must confirm medical necessity.
Qualified patients get VASCEPA free for up to 12 months, renewable annually.[1][3]
How Do Income Guidelines Work?
Amarin uses federal poverty levels adjusted yearly. Applicants submit proof like tax returns, pay stubs, or W-2s. For 2024:
| Household Size | Max Annual Income (400% FPL) |
|----------------|------------------------------|
| 1 | $60,240 |
| 2 | $81,760 |
| 3 | $103,280 |
| 4 | $124,800 |
Add $21,520 per additional person. Programs exclude income from certain assets.[3]
How to Apply for VASCEPA Assistance
- Savings Card: Instant activation at vascepa.com/savings or by calling 1-877-4-VASCEPA (1-877-482-7237). Doctor provides details; patient downloads card.
- PAP: Doctor or patient submits online form at vascepa.com/pap or by mail/fax with income docs. Approval in 2-3 business days; shipped to doctor's office.
Both require a valid prescription. Reapply yearly.[1][2]
What If You Don't Qualify or Have Medicare?
Medicare patients can't use the Savings Card but may check Extra Help (SSI-based) or state pharmaceutical aid. Alternatives include Amarin's co-pay assistance bridge program or generic icosapent ethyl if available. Contact Amarin for case-by-case exceptions.[3]
[1]: VASCEPA.com Patient Support
[2]: VASCEPA Savings Card Terms
[3]: Amarin Cares PAP Guidelines