Arzerra

Indicated For

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

About This Medication

# Arzerra (ofatumumab) Patient Guide: How to Get Arzerra at Low or No Cost Arzerra (ofatumumab) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of blood cancers, and while specific patient assistance program details are limited, options like the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) and the Arzerra Oncology Access Program may help eligible patients access it at low or no cost.[2][4] ## About Arzerra (ofatumumab) **Arzerra** is an injectable monoclonal antibody that targets CD20 on B-cells, helping to treat **chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)** and related conditions. It is FDA-approved for: - Previously untreated CLL patients for whom fludarabine-based therapy is inappropriate, in combination with chlorambucil. - Relapsed CLL, in combination with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide. - Extended treatment for patients in complete or partial response after at least two prior therapies for recurrent or progressive CLL. - CLL refractory to fludarabine and alemtuzumab.[5] Arzerra is administered by a healthcare professional, often in cycles with specific dosing like an initial 300 mg dose followed by 2,000 mg maintenance every four weeks. Common side effects include infusion reactions, infections, and low blood cell counts. Always discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.[4][5] **Important note:** Arzerra is no longer available for commercial purchase and is only distributed through the **Arzerra Oncology Access Program**, where your doctor must be registered to receive shipments directly to their office, hospital, or pharmacy.[3][4] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? Patient assistance for Arzerra typically falls under programs like the **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)**, as Novartis manufactures the drug. Eligibility generally includes: - Residing in the United States or a U.S. territory. - Being treated outpatient by a licensed U.S. healthcare provider. - Meeting income guidelines, often at or below a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Specific thresholds are not detailed in available sources, but Alaska and Hawaii have adjusted limits.[2] Detailed income eligibility is unavailable from current program listings, which show placeholders rather than exact figures.[1] Use the Federal Poverty Level calculator (available on government sites) to estimate your status. Programs may deduct medical expenses from income and require U.S. residency or citizenship verification.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (Example based on typical 400-500% FPL; confirm with program) | Notes | |---------------|-------------------------------------------------------------|-------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 - $75,000 | Varies by program; medical deductions possible[1][2] | | 2 (Couple) | ~$80,000 - $100,000 | Adjusted for AK/HI[2] | | 3 | ~$100,000 - $125,000 | Use FPL calculator[1] | | 4 | ~$120,000 - $150,000 | Confirm current FPL[1] | *These are illustrative based on common PAP structures; exact limits require direct program contact as specifics are not listed.[1][2]* ## Insurance Requirements NPAF targets patients **without insurance** or those who cannot afford their medication despite coverage. Medicare patients may qualify if they meet income criteria, but check for conflicts with Medicare Part D Extra Help. Commercial insurance or Medicaid patients should exhaust coverage options first, as Arzerra's restricted distribution may interact with prior authorizations.[2][3][5] Your doctor must be registered with the **Arzerra Oncology Access Program** regardless of assistance.[4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility:** Visit pap.novartis.com or call Novartis support to confirm you meet residency, income, and treatment criteria.[2] 2. **Gather Documents:** Prepare proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), residency, prescription, and physician details. Specific attachments like physician license may be needed.[1][2] 3. **Complete Application:** You and your healthcare provider (HCP) fill out your sections together. Forms are often interactive PDFs.[1][2] 4. **Submit:** Fax, mail, or upload as instructed. Incomplete apps trigger a letter with next steps and optional text alerts.[2] 5. **Wait for Decision:** Expect a letter within 4 weeks.[2] 6. **Receive Medication:** If approved, shipped via the Oncology Access Program to your doctor's office.[4] Contact Novartis at their patient assistance phone (details on pap.novartis.com) for forms.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing:** Up to 4 weeks for approval letter.[2] - **Delivery:** Direct to provider via restricted program; no home shipment typically.[1][4] - **Refills/Reauthorization:** Likely annual; reapply as per policy (details sparse).[1] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **PAN Foundation:** Offers financial aid for Arzerra; contact them for grants.[6] - **State Programs:** Check Medicaid prior auth or manufacturer copay cards. - **Biosimilars/Alternatives:** No listed biosimilars; consider other CLL therapies like rituximab if appropriate (discuss with doctor).[3] - **Generic Options:** None available; explore clinical trials or 340B hospitals. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical or financial advice. Program details can change; always verify with Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (pap.novartis.com) or your healthcare provider. Eligibility is not guaranteed, and Arzerra's restricted access requires doctor enrollment. Seek professional advice before starting treatment. Word count: 950.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026