Arava

Indicated For

Rheumatoid Arthritis

About This Medication

# Sanofi Patient Connection Patient Guide: How to Get Arava (leflunomide) at Low or No Cost Arava (leflunomide) is a prescription medication used to treat adults with active rheumatoid arthritis, an immune system disease that causes joint inflammation and pain.[8][3] The **Sanofi Patient Connection** program, offered by manufacturer **Sanofi**, provides eligible patients with certain Sanofi medications, including Arava, **at no cost** if you meet specific requirements.[1][2][5] This guide explains everything you need to know to apply and access this help. ## About Arava (leflunomide) Arava belongs to a class of drugs called antirheumatic immunomodulators. It helps reduce inflammation, slow joint damage, and improve symptoms like pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis.[3][8] It's available as 10 mg or 20 mg film-coated tablets taken orally. Treatment often starts with a **loading dose** of 100 mg daily for 3 days, followed by a maintenance dose of 20 mg daily (or 10 mg if needed).[3] Effects may appear after 4 weeks and improve over 4-6 months. Due to its long half-life, dose changes require careful monitoring, and stopping the drug needs a washout procedure.[3] Always follow your doctor's instructions, as Arava has contraindications like hypersensitivity and requires regular lab tests.[3] **Important safety note:** Arava can stay in your body for weeks or months. If planning pregnancy, discuss washout with your doctor.[3][8] ## Who Qualifies for Sanofi Patient Connection? This program helps US patients who can't afford their medications. While exact details like income thresholds aren't specified here, eligibility typically includes:[1][5] - US residents (including DC). - Household income at or below a certain **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** percentage (often 400-500% FPL, but confirm via application). - Uninsured or underinsured patients without other coverage options. - Valid prescription for an eligible Sanofi drug like Arava. The program is **not valid** if you have government insurance that fully covers the drug or in states prohibiting such assistance.[1][6] Sanofi reviews each case individually.[2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income limits for Sanofi Patient Connection aren't detailed in public sources, but patient assistance programs generally use FPL guidelines. Here's a general example based on 2026 US FPL (adjust for your year; check SSA.gov for exact figures). Assume a common threshold of **400% FPL** for illustration—**verify with Sanofi** as it may vary.[1][5] | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (400% FPL Example) | |----------------|---------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $60,240 | | 2 (Couple) | $81,760 | | 3 | $103,280 | | 4 | $124,800 | *Add ~$21,520 per additional person. Notes: Income includes all household sources. Assets may be considered. Medicare patients may qualify if in coverage gap.[4]* Contact Sanofi for your exact eligibility.[1] ## Insurance Requirements Sanofi Patient Connection is primarily for **uninsured or underinsured** patients whose insurance doesn't cover Arava or leaves high out-of-pocket costs.[1][5] It's **not available** if you have federal/state insurance paying fully.[6] Medicare patients in the 'donut hole' or coverage gap may qualify for this or Extra Help (apply at SSA.gov or 1-800-772-1213).[4] If insured, explore copay cards first (none specific for Arava, but check manufacturer).[10] Programs like PAN Foundation or Patient Advocate Foundation may help with copays.[4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm eligibility:** Visit sanofipatientconnection.com or call to check if Arava is covered.[1][2] 2. **Gather documents:** You'll need proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), ID, prescription, and insurance details (if any).[5] 3. **Download/print application:** Get the form at sanofipatientconnection.com/media/pdf/SPC_Application.pdf.[5] 4. **Complete and submit:** Fill out with your doctor/pharmacist help. Mail, fax, or apply online/phone.[1][5] 5. **Phone support:** Call Sanofi Patient Connection (number on site/application) for help.[2] 6. **Wait for approval:** Processing takes days to weeks.[1] **Application URL:** sanofipatientconnection.com[1] **Phone:** Check website for current number.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery Approval can take **1-4 weeks**, though some get meds faster.[1][6] Once approved, medication ships **directly to your home or pharmacy** at no cost for a set period (often 1 year, with reapplication).[1][5] Free trial programs may deliver in 24-48 hours for new patients (check availability for Arava).[6] Track status via phone.[2] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Copay help:** PAN Foundation or Patient Advocate Foundation for copays/deductibles if insured.[4] - **Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy:** For Medicare; covers premiums/copays (ssa.gov).[4] - **State Medicaid:** May cover full cost; apply via state site.[4] - **Discount cards:** Rx Advantage, Canadian savings, or Optum Perks coupons (up to 90% off).[4][9] - **90-day supply:** Reduces pharmacy trips/costs if insurance approves.[9] - **Generic leflunomide:** Cheaper alternative; check insurance coverage.[9] - **Other PAPs:** Call Sanofi for expanded options.[4][10] If denied, reapply with updated info or appeal.[5] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change; **always verify directly with Sanofi Patient Connection**.[1][5] Not medical advice—consult your doctor for treatment decisions. Sanofi reserves rights to modify/terminate programs.[6] Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026