Depakote

Indicated For

epilepsy, bipolar disorder, migraine prevention

About This Medication

# AbbVie Patient Assistance Foundation Guide: How to Get Depakote at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The AbbVie Patient Assistance Foundation offers Depakote (divalproex sodium) at no cost or reduced cost to patients who cannot afford their medication. This program is designed to help uninsured and underinsured patients access this important medication for treating epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraine prevention. ## What is Depakote? Depakote is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants and mood stabilizers. It's commonly prescribed to: - **Prevent seizures** in patients with epilepsy - **Stabilize mood** in patients with bipolar disorder - **Prevent migraines** in patients who experience frequent migraine headaches Your doctor has determined that Depakote is an appropriate treatment for your condition. ## Who Can Qualify for This Program? You may be eligible for the AbbVie Patient Assistance Foundation's Depakote program if you meet these criteria: - You are a U.S. resident - You are uninsured or underinsured - You do not qualify for prescription medication benefits through private insurance or government-funded programs (such as Medicare, Medicaid, or VA benefits) - Your household income falls within the program's guidelines - You have a valid prescription from your doctor for Depakote ## Income Eligibility Guidelines While the program's income thresholds vary based on individual circumstances, here's a general reference table for household income limits: | Household Size | Approximate Maximum Income | |---|---| | 1 person | Varies by state | | 2 people | Varies by state | | 3 people | Varies by state | | 4 people | Varies by state | | 5+ people | Varies by state | **Note:** Income limits vary by state and may be adjusted periodically. During your application, AbbVie will provide specific income thresholds applicable to your situation. The program uses federal poverty guidelines as a reference point, but may allow higher incomes depending on medical and financial hardship factors. ## Insurance Requirements The AbbVie Patient Assistance Foundation is specifically designed for patients who are: - **Uninsured:** You do not have any health insurance coverage - **Underinsured:** You have health insurance, but it does not cover prescription medications or has extremely high out-of-pocket costs for Depakote - **Not eligible for government programs:** You do not qualify for Medicare, Medicaid, state pharmaceutical assistance programs, or other government-funded medication coverage If you have insurance that could cover Depakote, you may be asked to try other options first or work with your insurance company before applying to this program. ## Step-by-Step Application Instructions ### Step 1: Gather Required Documents Before starting your application, collect the following: - **Income verification:** Recent pay stubs (last 30 days), tax returns (last 2 years), or a notarized statement of income if you're unemployed or self-employed - **Valid prescription:** A written prescription from your doctor for Depakote (brand name or generic divalproex sodium) - **Proof of residency:** Utility bill, lease agreement, or other document showing your current address - **Identification:** Copy of your driver's license or state ID - **Insurance information:** If you have any insurance, documentation showing you're uninsured or underinsured for Depakote ### Step 2: Start Your Application You can apply through multiple methods: **Online:** - Visit https://www.abbvieaccess.com/depakote - Complete the application form on the website - Upload required documents directly **By Phone:** - Call the AbbVie Patient Assistance Foundation at **(800) 222-6885** - A representative can help you apply verbally and arrange document submission - Have your documents ready before calling - Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 AM-8 PM ET **By Mail:** - Contact AbbVie for a paper application form - Send completed form and documents via mail (address will be provided) ### Step 3: Submit Your Application - Complete all sections of the application form - Do not leave any fields blank; if a question doesn't apply, write "N/A" - Ensure your doctor's prescription is included - Include all required income verification documents - Keep copies for your records - Submit through your chosen method (online, phone, or mail) ### Step 4: Wait for Approval - AbbVie will contact you once a decision has been made - If approved, they'll discuss delivery options and next steps - If denied or if more information is needed, they'll contact you with specific instructions ## Application Timeline & Medication Delivery **Processing Time:** Applications typically take **4-8 weeks** to process. However, some applications may be approved faster if all required documents are complete. **Delivery:** Once approved, Depakote will be **shipped directly to you** at your home address. Most approvals include either: - A 90-day supply of medication - Ongoing refills for the duration of your enrollment in the program **Important:** Don't stop taking your current medication while waiting for approval. Suddenly stopping Depakote, especially for epilepsy, can be dangerous. Continue taking your medication as prescribed until you receive your assistance program medication. ## What Happens If Your Application is Denied? If AbbVie denies your application, don't lose hope. Here are your options: ### Ask Why - Request a detailed explanation of the denial reason - Common reasons include: income above threshold, has insurance coverage available, or incomplete application ### Appeal or Reapply - If circumstances change, you may reapply - If the denial was due to missing information, you can resubmit with complete documents ### Explore Alternative Resources - **State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs:** Many states offer medication assistance regardless of federal programs - **NeedyMeds.org:** Search for additional patient assistance programs - **Discount Prescription Cards:** GoodRx, SingleCare, or RxSaver may reduce medication costs - **Your Healthcare Provider:** Ask if they have samples or alternative treatment options - **Local Community Health Centers:** May offer medications on a sliding fee scale - **Medicaid:** Reapply if your income or circumstances have changed - **Medicare Extra Help:** If you're over 65, you may qualify for medication cost assistance ## Important Reminders - **Honesty matters:** Providing false information can result in program termination and potential legal consequences - **Keep copies:** Save copies of everything you submit - **Follow up:** If you don't hear back after 8 weeks, call AbbVie to check status - **Insurance changes:** Report any changes in your insurance status immediately - **Prescription updates:** If your doctor changes your Depakote dose or frequency, update AbbVie - **Privacy:** Your information is protected and used only for program purposes ## Legal Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The AbbVie Patient Assistance Foundation reserves the right to modify program requirements, income limits, and eligibility criteria at any time. For the most current and accurate information, visit https://www.abbvieaccess.com/depakote or call (800) 222-6885. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your medication needs and treatment plan.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026