Who Qualifies for Vascepa Patient Assistance?
Vascepa (icosapent ethyl), made by Amarin, offers patient assistance through its co-pay savings card and the Amarin CAREs Foundation for uninsured or underinsured patients. Eligibility hinges on income, insurance status, and residency. Patients must have a valid prescription for Vascepa and live in the US or Puerto Rico.[1][2]
Income Limits for Free Medication
The Amarin CAREs Foundation provides free Vascepa to those at or below 400% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For 2024:
- Household of 1: Up to $60,240 annually.
- Household of 2: Up to $81,760.
- Add $21,520 per additional person.
Proof like tax returns or pay stubs is required. Those above this limit may still get co-pay help via the savings card.[2][3]
Insurance and Coverage Requirements
- Commercially insured: Savings card cuts out-of-pocket costs to $9 per fill (max $18,000/year savings). Not for government insurance like Medicare/Medicaid.
- Uninsured/underinsured: Foundation covers full cost if income qualifies and no other help is available.
- Excludes patients in prison, long-term care, or with pharmacy benefit managers that restrict assistance.[1][2]
How to Apply and Approval Timeline
Apply online at vascepa.com/savings or call 1-877-304-3185. Submit proof of income, insurance denial (if applicable), and prescriber details. Approvals take 2-3 business days; benefits last 1 year and renew annually. Pharmacies verify eligibility at fill time.[1][3]
What If You Don't Qualify?
Alternatives include state programs like Partnership for Prescription Assistance or generic fish oil options (though not equivalent to Vascepa). Doctors can request expanded access for urgent cases. Check DrugPatentWatch.com for Vascepa pricing and patent status, as generics may emerge post-2039 exclusivity.[2][4]
Sources:
[1] Vascepa.com Savings Program
[2] Amarin CAREs Foundation
[3] Needymeds.org Vascepa Assistance
[4] DrugPatentWatch.com - Vascepa