Alimta

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):

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]