Arthrotec

Indicated For

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, other chronic pain conditions

About This Medication

# Pfizer Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Arthrotec (diclofenac sodium/misoprostol) at Low or No Cost Arthrotec, a combination of **diclofenac sodium** (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID) and **misoprostol** (which helps protect the stomach lining), is prescribed to treat pain and inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, especially for patients at risk of stomach ulcers from NSAIDs alone. The **Pfizer Patient Assistance Program (PAP)** offers this medication at no cost to eligible uninsured or publicly insured patients who meet income and other criteria, helping reduce financial barriers to essential treatment.[1][5] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? Eligibility focuses on financial need, insurance status, and treatment setting. Key requirements include: - **Residency**: You must live in the U.S. or a U.S. territory with a valid U.S. address. Proof of U.S. citizenship is not required.[5] - **Age and Treatment**: Be 18 years or older, have a valid prescription from a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider, and receive treatment in an outpatient setting (not inpatient hospital care).[5][9] - **Insurance Status**: Uninsured or publicly insured (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid, CHAMPUS/TRICARE, VA). **Commercially insured patients are not eligible**—this includes employer-sponsored plans or Federal Employee plans.[1][2][5][10] - **Financial Need**: You must attest that you cannot afford your medication and meet income limits, typically up to **500% of the federal poverty level (FPL)** based on household size and pre-tax income. Exact thresholds vary and are checked during application; no fixed table is provided, but examples include proof via tax returns showing household income alignment.[4][9] - **Diagnosis**: An FDA-approved diagnosis is required, which your provider confirms.[2][10] **Income Eligibility Breakdown** While specific dollar amounts aren't listed (as they adjust annually with FPL), here's a general table based on program guidelines up to 500% FPL (2026 estimates for illustration; verify current via application): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 400% FPL | 500% FPL (Max for Program) | |---------------|----------|----------|----------------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | $60,240 | $75,300 | | 2 | $20,440 | $81,760 | $102,200 | | 3 | $25,820 | $103,280| $129,100 | | 4 | $31,200 | $124,800| $156,000 | | +1 person | +$5,380 | +$21,520| +$26,900 | *Note: Use prior-year federal tax return (1040), W-2s, paycheck stubs, or SSA-1099 for proof. Electronic verification is optional.[2][4]* ## About Arthrotec and Why Assistance Matters **Arthrotec** combines diclofenac to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness from arthritis with misoprostol to prevent NSAID-induced ulcers. Common uses: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea (from misoprostol), or heartburn—discuss with your doctor. Without insurance, costs can exceed $300–$500 monthly, making PAP vital for adherence.[1] ## Insurance Requirements - **Eligible**: No insurance, Medicare (Part D/Advantage with Payment Plan enrollment), Medicaid, TRICARE/CHAMPUS, VA.[1][6] - **Ineligible**: Any commercial/private insurance. Medicare patients must document enrollment in the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan and confirm unaffordability post-prior authorization if needed.[6][9] - Submit front/back copies of insurance cards if applicable.[9] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.PfizerRxPathways.com, use the Program Finder, enter "Arthrotec". Confirm you qualify.[1][5] 2. **Gather Documents**: - Prescription from your doctor. - Proof of income (e.g., 1040 pages 1-2, W-2, 2 paystubs, SSA-1099).[4] - Insurance cards (if public). - Medicare details if applicable.[9] 3. **Start Online (Preferred)**: Use Pfizer PAP Connect at www.PfizerRxPathways.com or www.pfizerpapconnect.com. Create account, upload docs, complete form with your doctor.[1][3][8] 4. **Manual Option**: Download form, have doctor complete prescriber section, sign patient sections, mail/fax to Pfizer PAP, P.O. Box 66585, St. Louis, MO 63166-6585 or fax 866-470-1748 / 1-877-548-1734.[4][10] 5. **Phone Help**: Call (866) 706-2400 for support.[Program details] 6. **Submit**: Doctor or you finalize; all pages required.[4] ## Timeline and Delivery Expect notification in **2-3 weeks** via letter with enrollment status and term (typically 1 year).[1][4][5] If approved, medication ships free to your **prescribing physician's office** for outpatient pickup—no home delivery.[Program details] Refills handled via PAP Connect or phone.[8] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Review denial reasons (e.g., income, insurance); resubmit corrected docs.[1] - **Other Programs**: Check NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or state pharmaceutical aid. For Arthrotec, explore generic diclofenac + misoprostol options or patient discount cards (though commercial insurance may apply). - **Government Aid**: Apply to Medicaid/State Exchange first if uninsured.[5] - **Doctor Samples**: Ask provider for bridge supply. - **Reapply**: If circumstances change (e.g., job loss).[3] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of latest data. Eligibility, processes, and FPL limits can change—always verify at www.PfizerRxPathways.com or call (866) 706-2400. Not medical/financial advice; consult your healthcare provider. Pfizer RxPathways® and Pfizer PAP Connect are trademarks of Pfizer Inc. Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026