CeeNU

Indicated For

brain tumors, oncology

About This Medication

# Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation for Oncology Patient Guide: How to Get CeeNU (lomustine) at Low or No Cost CeeNU (lomustine) is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of brain tumors, Hodgkin's lymphoma, and other cancers. The **Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation for Oncology** (BMSPAF Oncology) provides this important drug **free of charge** to eligible uninsured or low-income patients facing financial hardship. ## About CeeNU (lomustine) **CeeNU**, also known as lomustine, belongs to a class of drugs called alkylating agents. It works by interfering with cancer cell DNA, slowing or stopping their growth. Doctors prescribe it for: - Brain tumors (like glioblastoma) - Hodgkin's disease - Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma It's typically taken orally as capsules, every 6 weeks. Common side effects include nausea, low blood counts (increasing infection or bleeding risk), and liver or lung issues. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report side effects immediately. This program helps ensure you can access CeeNU without cost barriers if you qualify. ## Who Qualifies? The BMSPAF Oncology program targets patients with financial need who lack adequate insurance coverage for their Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) oncology medications, including CeeNU. Key requirements include: - Living in the **US, Puerto Rico, or US Virgin Islands**. - **Household income** at or below program limits (typically **300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** or specific caps like $75,000 annual adjusted gross income for some). - **No prescription coverage** for the medication, or for Medicare Part D patients, out-of-pocket costs of at least **3% of yearly household income**. - For cancer patients, higher incomes may sometimes qualify. **Cancer patients** prescribed BMS drugs like CeeNU often have broader eligibility, even if income exceeds standard limits. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Exact income thresholds vary yearly and by household size. BMSPAF generally uses **300% of FPL** or a $75,000 household cap for oncology support. Use the program's online assessment or call to confirm current limits. Here's a sample table based on 2026 FPL guidelines (verify with BMSPAF as they update annually): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (300% FPL) | |----------------|------------------------------| | 1 | $45,180 | | 2 | $61,320 | | 3 | $77,460 | | 4 | $93,600 | | +1 per person | +$16,140 | **Notes**: Adjusted gross income applies. Cancer patients may qualify above these. Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs) required. ## Insurance Requirements This program is for **uninsured or low-income patients** without coverage for CeeNU. Specifically: - **No private, Medicaid, VA, or other insurance** covering the drug. - **Medicare Part D**: Eligible if you've spent ≥3% of household income on out-of-pocket prescriptions. - Underinsured? Check BMS Access Support first for copay help; they may refer to BMSPAF. If insured, explore BMS's copay programs via BMS Access Support. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit bmspaf.org or call **(800) 736-0003** for a quick assessment. 2. **Download Form**: Get the BMSPAF Oncology application from bmspaf.org or request by phone/fax. 3. **Patient Section (Section I)**: Fill in personal info, insurance details (check 'None' if uninsured), household size/income, current meds, and sign consent. 4. **Provider Section (Sections II & III)**: Your doctor completes treatment/prescription info, facility details, and signs. Attach prescription. 5. **Gather Documents**: Proof of income (e.g., 2025 tax return, W-2s, pay stubs). No insurance cards if uninsured. 6. **Submit**: **Mail** to PO Box 220769, Charlotte, NC 28222-0769 or fax to 800-736-1611/888-776-2370. **Free**—no fees. **Tip**: Complete forms fully to avoid delays. Both signatures required. ## Timeline and Delivery Processing takes **2-4 weeks** after full submission, but delays occur with missing info. Once approved, medication ships **free** directly to your doctor's office or home (specify on form). Enrollment lasts **1 year**; reapply annually. ## Alternatives if Denied - **BMS Access Support**: For insured patients, offers copay cards, prior auth help (bmsaccesssupport.com). - **Other Foundations**: PAN Foundation, HealthWell Foundation for cancer drugs. - **State Programs**: Check rxassist.org or NeedyMeds.org. - **Generic Options**: No biosimilars for CeeNU; discuss alternatives with your doctor. - **Appeal**: Call (800) 736-0003 to review denial reasons and resubmit. ## Disclaimer This guide provides general info based on publicly available BMSPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility, forms, and rules can change—**always verify with BMSPAF at (800) 736-0003 or bmspaf.org**. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment. BMSPAF/BMS not liable for issues from this guide. Word count: 942.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026