Descovy

Indicated For

HIV-1 treatment, HIV-1 PrEP

About This Medication

# Gilead Advancing Access Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) at Low or No Cost Descovy is a prescription medication from Gilead Sciences used to treat HIV infection in certain adults and children, and as **pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)** to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV in adults and adolescents at high risk. This guide explains the **Gilead Advancing Access Patient Assistance Program (PAP/MAP)**, which provides **Descovy free of charge** to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients meeting income criteria.[1][3][4] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The program helps patients who cannot afford their medication due to financial hardship. Key eligibility factors include: - **Uninsured or underinsured** status. - **Household income at or below 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. - **U.S. residency**. - **Not enrolled in government programs** like Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, or VA benefits.[1][3][4] **Important:** Even if you have commercial insurance, separate co-pay assistance may reduce costs to $0, but PAP/MAP is primarily for those without adequate coverage.[3][4][6] ## About Descovy **Descovy** combines **emtricitabine** and **tenofovir alafenamide**, two antiretroviral drugs that work together to block HIV from multiplying in the body. For **HIV treatment**, it's used with other antiretrovirals in adults and children (weighing at least 25 kg) who are treatment-naïve or switching regimens, with no known resistance. For **PrEP**, it prevents HIV infection in at-risk individuals when taken daily, but it does **not prevent other STIs** and requires HIV testing before starting and periodically.[3] Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and fatigue. Serious risks involve kidney problems, bone density loss, or lactic acidosis—discuss with your doctor. Descovy is a tablet taken once daily with or without food.[1][3] Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions. This program does not replace medical advice. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **total household income** compared to the **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, which adjusts yearly for household size. The threshold is **500% of FPL**—generous compared to many programs.[1] Here's a table with **2026 FPL estimates** (based on 2025 guidelines; check HHS.gov for exact figures): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (500% FPL) | |----------------|--------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $73,600 | | 2 (Couple) | $100,000 | | 3 | $126,400 | | 4 | $152,800 | | +1 Member | Add ~$26,400 each | **Notes:** Income includes wages, Social Security, etc. Deductions may apply (e.g., high medical costs). Provide recent tax returns, pay stubs, or benefit statements as proof.[1] ## Insurance Requirements - **Eligible:** Uninsured patients or underinsured (high co-pays/deductibles) with commercial insurance may qualify for PAP/MAP if income criteria are met. - **Not Eligible:** Enrolled in **Medicare Part D, Medicaid, TRICARE, VA, or AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)**. Government program participants should explore those benefits first.[1][3][4][5] If your insurance changes, contact the program—they can help navigate appeals or alternatives.[1][8] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a Prescription:** Ask your doctor for Descovy and confirm it's for treatment or PrEP.[9] 2. **Contact or Enroll:** Call **(800) 226-2056** (Mon-Fri, 9 AM-8 PM ET) or download the enrollment form from GileadAdvancingAccess.com. A specialist guides you.[1][9] 3. **Gather Documents:** - **Proof of income** (tax return, W-2, pay stubs). - **Proof of residency** (utility bill, lease). - **Prescription** from your doctor. - **Proof of insurance status** (denial letter or insurance card showing lack of coverage).[1] 4. **Submit Application:** Fax to (800) 216-6857, mail, or submit online/via phone. Doctor or patient can initiate.[9] 5. **Wait for Approval:** Processing takes **2-4 weeks**. You'll get a call or letter.[1] **Tip:** Specify if for PrEP on the form.[9] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing:** 2-4 weeks after complete submission. - **Delivery:** Medication shipped **free to your home or doctor's office** for up to 12 months supply, depending on approval.[1][4] - **Reauthorization:** **Required annually** or upon changes. Re-enroll if insurance lapses, but not if on Medicaid/ADAP.[1] Track status by calling the helpline. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal:** Provide more info or updated documents. - **Co-pay Program:** For commercial insurance—up to $7,200/year, often $0 co-pay (98% of users).[3][4][6] - **State Programs:** ADAP, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. - **Generic Options:** No biosimilars listed; discuss alternatives like Truvada with your doctor. - **Manufacturer Help:** Call for benefits investigation or prior auth support.[1][8] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on program details as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and FPL change—verify with Gilead at (800) 226-2056 or GileadAdvancingAccess.com. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment suitability. Program availability subject to change; Gilead may discontinue or modify.[1][3] *(Word count: 1028)*

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026