Anzemet

Indicated For

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)

About This Medication

# Anzemet (Dolasetron) Patient Guide: How to Get This Medication at Low or No Cost **Important Notice:** Anzemet (dolasetron) has been discontinued in the US market and is no longer available as a branded medication.[5] This guide focuses on assistance options for generic dolasetron or similar treatments for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), primarily through nonprofit funds like the HealthWell Foundation's Medicare Access program, as no specific manufacturer patient assistance program (PAP) for Anzemet was identified.[2][4] Always consult your doctor for current availability and alternatives like ondansetron or palonosetron.[2][7] ## About Anzemet (Dolasetron) Dolasetron is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used to **prevent nausea and vomiting** caused by cancer chemotherapy or surgery.[3][5] It works by blocking serotonin, a chemical in the brain and gut that triggers these symptoms.[3] Typically taken as a tablet 1 hour before chemotherapy or given intravenously, the dose depends on your size, treatment regimen, and health.[3][5] Common side effects may include headache, fatigue, or diarrhea—discuss risks like heart rhythm changes with your doctor.[5] Since it's discontinued, generic versions or alternatives may be prescribed.[5][7] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? No dedicated manufacturer PAP exists for Anzemet/dolasetron, but **nonprofit copay foundations** like HealthWell Foundation offer help, especially for Medicare patients.[2] Key programs: - **HealthWell Foundation CINV Medicare Access Fund**: For Medicare Part B patients with a verified CINV diagnosis. Covers drugs like Anzemet/dolasetron up to **$1,000 maximum award**. Requires US treatment and physician verification.[2] - **Medicare Prescription Payment Plan**: Helps Part D enrollees spread out-of-pocket costs for covered meds—no income limits.[1] - General PAPs (e.g., AZ&Me, GSK) don't list dolasetron but may refer uninsured patients.[4][6] Uninsured patients may be referred to other resources.[2][4] Insurance often covers alternatives first (e.g., ondansetron).[7] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds vary by program; HealthWell doesn't publicly list exact FPL limits here but typically aligns with 400-500% FPL for copay aid. Medicare plans have no income caps for payment plans.[1] Here's a general table for similar CINV funds (consult program for updates): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (e.g., ~400% FPL) | Notes | |---------------|---------------------------------------|-------| | **Individual** | ~$60,000 | Varies; Medicare Part B required for HealthWell.[2] | | **Couple** | ~$80,000 | Diagnosis must match CINV.[2] | | **Family of 3** | ~$100,000 | Max $1,000 award.[2] | | **Family of 4** | ~$120,000 | Physician signature needed.[2] | *Table based on typical nonprofit PAPs; verify with HealthWell as limits adjust annually.* Always provide proof like tax returns.[2] ## Insurance Requirements - **Medicare**: Primary option. HealthWell requires **Part B**; refers non-Medicare to manufacturer PAPs (none found for dolasetron).[2] Part D users can use the Payment Plan for copays.[1] Anzemet may need prior authorization if preferred alternatives fail.[7] - **Commercial/Private Insurance**: May cover with step therapy (try ondansetron first).[7] Copay cards from similar programs (e.g., AZ&Me for Medicare Part D) offer $0 cost if eligible.[4] - **Uninsured/Medicaid**: Limited; nonprofits refer to general PAPs.[2][4] No insurance? Explore AZ&Me-like programs, though not for dolasetron.[4][6] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm Eligibility**: Get a CINV diagnosis verified by your doctor/nurse practitioner.[2] Check Medicare status.[1][2] 2. **Choose Program**: Start with **HealthWell Foundation** (healthwellfoundation.org).[2] For Part D copays, use Medicare Payment Plan via your plan.[1] 3. **Gather Documents**: Prescription, proof of income (tax return/W-2), Medicare card, diagnosis note with signature.[2][5] 4. **Apply Online/Phone**: Visit HealthWell site or call (they handle referrals).[2] For Medicare plan, contact your Part D provider.[1] 5. **Submit & Wait**: Upload docs; processing takes weeks.[2] 6. **Receive Aid**: Copay card or direct pharmacy payment up to limit.[2] Your doctor/pharmacy can assist with forms.[3] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing Time**: 2-4 weeks for HealthWell; faster for Medicare Payment Plan enrollment.[1][2] - **Delivery**: Medication via pharmacy; aid as copay assistance or free supply (up to 3 months in some PAPs).[2][4] Refills require reapplication if limits hit.[2] - Expect delays if docs incomplete.[2] ## Alternatives if Denied or Unavailable - **Switch Meds**: Ondansetron (generic Zofran), palonosetron, or aprepitant—often cheaper/covered.[2][7] - **Other Funds**: PAN Foundation or Patient Access Network for CINV.[2] - **GoodRx Discounts**: Up to 80% off generics at pharmacies.[1] - **Manufacturer Referrals**: HealthWell refers uninsured.[2] - **Compassionate Use**: Ask doctor for samples or hospital programs.[3] Since Anzemet is discontinued, generics or IV forms may be hospital-administered.[3][5] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical/financial advice. Program details change; verify directly with sources like HealthWell (as of 2026).[2] Anzemet's discontinuation means focus on alternatives.[5] Consult your healthcare provider for personalized options. Aid not guaranteed; income/assets reviewed.[1][2] Word count: 950.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026