Alimta

Indicated For

Non-small cell lung cancer, mesothelioma

About This Medication

# Lilly Cares Foundation Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Alimta (pemetrexed) at Low or No Cost Alimta (pemetrexed) is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of lung cancer and mesothelioma. The **Lilly Cares Foundation Patient Assistance Program** offers this medication **at no cost** to eligible patients who meet specific income, residency, and insurance criteria.[1][2] ## About Alimta (pemetrexed) **Alimta** is an injectable chemotherapy drug manufactured by **Eli Lilly and Company**. It works by interfering with cancer cell growth and is commonly prescribed for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and malignant pleural mesothelioma. Administered by healthcare professionals, typically every 3 weeks, it requires **folic acid, vitamin B12 supplements, and dexamethasone** to reduce side effects like nausea, fatigue, and low blood cell counts. Always follow your doctor's instructions precisely, as this guide covers only access assistance, not medical advice.[1] ## Who Qualifies for Lilly Cares? To qualify, you must meet **all** these criteria: - Be a **permanent U.S. resident** (including Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands).[1] - Have a prescription for **Alimta** from your healthcare provider.[1] - Meet **household income guidelines** (generally at or below **300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**).[5] - Satisfy **insurance requirements** (detailed below).[1] - **Not** be enrolled in Medicaid, full Low-Income Subsidy (LIS/Extra Help), or VA Benefits.[1] The program prioritizes those unable to afford medications despite other assistance efforts. **Specific eligibility for Alimta** falls under medication group insurance rules—check the application for exact details.[1] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Lilly Cares uses **household income at or below 300% FPL**. Exact thresholds vary by household size and location (Alaska/Hawaii have higher limits). Here's a **2026 example table** based on standard FPL (actuals on application): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 300% FPL (Approx. Annual Income Limit) | |----------------|----------|---------------------------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | **$45,180** | | 2 | $20,440 | **$61,320** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$77,460** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$93,600** | | +1 person | +$5,380 | **+16,140** | *Notes: Income includes all household earnings. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs. Program has additional criteria; call (800) 545-6962 for personalized check.[1][5][6]* ## Insurance Requirements **Strict rules apply**: - **Uninsured** patients qualify.[5] - **Medicare Part D** or **Part B** patients without supplemental/secondary insurance may qualify.[1][5] - Medicare Part D patients can reapply starting **October 15** for the next year.[2] - **Excluded**: Medicaid, full LIS/Extra Help, VA Benefits.[1] Verify your status matches Alimta's medication group rules on the application.[1] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Review income, insurance, and residency. Call **(800) 545-6962** or visit www.lillycares.com.[1][2] 2. **Choose Application Method**: - **Online** (fastest, upload docs).[1][2][3] - Download, fill, print/mail/fax.[1][2] - Request mailed form: (800) 545-6962.[2] 3. **Complete Patient Section**: Enter personal info, income, insurance details. Sign.[1][5][6] 4. **Healthcare Provider Completes**: Prescriber fills their section, attaches prescription.[1][5] 5. **Gather Documents**: Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), insurance cards/denial letters if applicable.[5][6] 6. **Submit**: - Online: Upload everything.[3] - Mail: Lilly Cares, PO Box 501847, San Diego, CA 92150.[1] - Fax: Check application for number.[1] **Tip**: Online reduces delays. No fees—avoid third parties charging for help.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Typically **2-4 weeks**.[5] - **Notification**: Mailed to you, texted (if opted), faxed to doctor.[1] - **Approval Duration**: Usually **12 months** or end of calendar year (Medicare Part D).[1] - **Delivery**: Shipped free to **your home** or **doctor's office**. Pharmacy partner calls to schedule.[1] - **Refills**: Automatic during enrollment; reapply at end.[1][7] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Appeal**: Contact (800) 545-6962 for reasons and fixes (e.g., missing docs).[1] - **Other Programs**: NeedyMeds.org, RxAssist.org, or manufacturer copay cards.[7] - **Medicare Extra Help**: Apply if low-income (not full LIS).[1] - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or **CancerCare** grants for cancer meds. - **State programs** or **hospital charity care**. - **Generic/biosimilar options**: None currently for pemetrexed; discuss with doctor.[5] ## Disclaimer This guide synthesizes public program info as of 2026 but **is not official**. Eligibility/rules change—**always verify** at www.lillycares.com or (800) 545-6962. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor/pharmacist. Lilly Cares not affiliated with paid third-party services. Program availability for Alimta subject to stock and criteria.[1][2][5]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026