ARISTADA INITIO

Indicated For

Schizophrenia

About This Medication

# ARISTADA Care Support Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get ARISTADA INITIO (aripiprazole lauroxil) at Low or No Cost ARISTADA INITIO (aripiprazole lauroxil) is a prescription medication used, in combination with oral aripiprazole, to initiate treatment with ARISTADA for schizophrenia in adults.[2] The **ARISTADA Care Support Patient Assistance Program**, offered by **Alkermes, Inc.**, provides this medication at no cost to eligible uninsured or functionally uninsured patients in the US, typically for up to 6 months.[10] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? This program is designed for patients who cannot afford their medication due to lack of insurance coverage. Key eligibility criteria include: - Being **uninsured** (no health insurance) or **functionally uninsured** (insurance does not cover the medication, or high out-of-pocket costs make it unaffordable).[1][2][10] - **18 years of age or older**.[10] - **US resident** (50 states; Puerto Rico may have separate rules).[10] - A **valid prescription** from a US-licensed healthcare provider for on-label use (e.g., schizophrenia treatment).[1][10] **Important exclusions**: Patients enrolled in government insurance programs like Medicare (including Part D and Advantage), Medicaid, Medigap, TRICARE, VA, DOD, or correctional programs are generally not eligible.[5] If your insurance changes, notify the program immediately at (866) 274-7823 to check continued eligibility.[5] ## About ARISTADA INITIO **ARISTADA INITIO** is an injectable form of aripiprazole lauroxil given as a one-time initiation dose, combined with oral aripiprazole, to start ARISTADA treatment for adults with schizophrenia.[2] It is a long-acting atypical antipsychotic that helps manage symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Administered by a healthcare professional, it provides steady medication release over time, potentially improving adherence compared to daily pills. **Serious side effects** may include cerebrovascular problems (e.g., stroke) in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS: high fever, stiff muscles, confusion), tardive dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements), and others. Always discuss risks with your doctor and seek immediate help for severe symptoms.[3][7] This guide focuses on accessing the medication affordably; it is not medical advice. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds are not publicly detailed (listed as 'null' in program data), as eligibility emphasizes insurance status over strict income limits. However, the program targets those facing financial hardship, including during crises like COVID-19.[4][9] It is **needs-based**, so demonstrating inability to pay is key.[10] | Eligibility Factor | Details | |--------------------|---------| | **Income** | No fixed thresholds published; based on financial need and inability to afford medication. Contact program for case-by-case review.[1][10] | | **Age** | 18+ years old.[10] | | **Residency** | US residents (50 states; check PR/territories).[10] | | **Insurance** | Uninsured or functionally uninsured only. Excludes Medicare, Medicaid, etc.[2][5] | | **Duration** | Up to 6 months of free medication.[10] | Call (866) 274-7823 for personalized eligibility assessment (available 9 AM–8 PM ET).[4][10] ## Insurance Requirements The program is strictly for **uninsured or functionally uninsured patients**. 'Functionally uninsured' means your insurance denies coverage for ARISTADA INITIO or requires unaffordable copays/deductibles.[2][10] Attach copies of all insurance cards (medical, pharmacy, secondary) to prove status.[5] **Not eligible if**: - Enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, VA, DOD, or similar.[5] - Have commercial insurance that covers the drug (consider co-pay savings programs instead).[4] If insured, explore Alkermes' **Co-Pay Savings Program** at aristada.com/copay-savings, which reduces out-of-pocket costs for commercially insured patients.[4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applications can be submitted via **multiple methods** (phone, fax, etc.).[1] Here's how: 1. **Get a Prescription**: Ask your US-licensed healthcare provider for a valid prescription for ARISTADA INITIO. They must confirm medical necessity and supervise treatment.[5][10] 2. **Complete Enrollment Form**: Download from aristadahcp.com or call (866) 274-7823. Include patient info, prescriber details, and insurance status. Prescriber signs to authorize Alkermes to handle reimbursement support.[5] 3. **Gather Documents**: - Valid prescription. - Completed enrollment form. - Copy of medical insurance card (both sides). - Copy of pharmacy insurance card (both sides). - Secondary insurance card if applicable (both sides).[5] 4. **Submit**: Fax to 1-844-464-7171 or call (866) 274-7823 for guidance. Incomplete forms delay processing.[10] 5. **Await Approval**: Program reviews for eligibility. Reauthorization is required for refills.[1] Your provider will be contacted if needed. ## Timeline and Delivery **Processing time** is not specified but aim for prompt submission to avoid delays.[1] Once approved, medication is **delivered free to your licensed healthcare provider** (e.g., doctor's office, clinic, or select retail pharmacy like Albertsons locations).[1][4][10] Provider administers the injection. Up to 6 months supply initially; reapply for extensions.[10] **Contact ARISTADA Care Support** at (866) 274-7823 (9 AM–8 PM ET) for status updates.[3] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Call (866) 274-7823 to discuss reasons and resubmit with more info. - **Co-Pay Programs**: For commercially insured, use ARISTADA Co-Pay Savings to lower costs.[4] - **Other Assistance**: Check rxassist.org or general resources like NeedyMeds. Provider locator includes retail pharmacies.[4] - **Free Trials**: Alkermes HIFT program offers trial units via providers.[6] - **Generic Options**: No biosimilars noted; discuss alternatives like other aripiprazole forms with your doctor.[1] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of 2026.[1][2][10] Eligibility, terms, and availability can change; always verify with Alkermes at (866) 274-7823 or aristada.com. Not affiliated with Alkermes. Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. Alkermes, ARISTADA Care Support, and ARISTADA INITIO are trademarks of Alkermes, Inc. Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026