Who Qualifies for Vascepa's Patient Assistance Program?
Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) offers the Vascepa Savings Card and Patient Assistance Program through Amarin Corporation. Eligibility requires a valid prescription for Vascepa, U.S. residency (or Puerto Rico), and commercial insurance. Uninsured patients qualify if household income is at or below 400% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Patients on government insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, or VA benefits are ineligible.[1][2]
What Income Limits Apply?
Income verification uses the most recent federal or state tax return. For 2024:
- 1-person household: Up to $60,240 (400% FPL).
- 2-person: Up to $81,760.
- Add $21,520 per additional person.
No income limit for commercially insured patients using the Savings Card.[1][3]
Commercial Insurance Requirements and Savings Card Details
Commercially insured patients pay as little as $9 per 120-capsule prescription (up to 13 fills/year), capped at $5,850 annually. Requires denial of coverage for brand-only alternative first. Not valid if patient is reimbursed by another source or participates in government programs.[2][4]
How to Apply and What Documents Are Needed?
Apply online at vascepa.com/savings-support, by phone (1-877-304-3181), or fax. Submit:
- Proof of income (tax return or pay stubs).
- Proof of insurance denial (if applicable).
- Prescription details.
Approval takes 2-3 business days; free medication ships to doctor's office for qualified uninsured/low-income patients.[1][2]
What Exclusions and Restrictions Exist?
Program excludes government-insured patients, those in active clinical trials, or with recent Vascepa samples. Cannot combine with other offers. Expires after 12 months; reapply annually. Amarin may discontinue anytime.[4]
Alternatives if You Don't Qualify
Consider state pharmaceutical assistance programs, NeedyMeds.org, or RxAssist.org for other copay help. Generic icosapent ethyl is unavailable due to patents expiring in 2035 (check DrugPatentWatch.com for updates).[3][5]
[1] Vascepa.com Patient Assistance Program page: https://vascepa.com/savings-support
[2] Amarin Patient Support: https://www.vascepa.com/hcp/patient-support
[3] HHS Poverty Guidelines 2024: https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines
[4] Vascepa Savings Card Terms: https://vascepa.com/savings-support/savings-card-terms-conditions
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com Vascepa patents: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA