Durezol

Indicated For

ocular inflammation, post-operative inflammation

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) Patient Guide: How to Get Durezol (difluprednate) at Low or No Cost Durezol (difluprednate) is a prescription eye drop used to treat inflammation and pain after eye surgery or for certain eye conditions like uveitis. The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** helps eligible uninsured or underinsured patients get Durezol at no cost if you meet income and other requirements. ## About Durezol (difluprednate) **Durezol** is a corticosteroid eye drop that reduces swelling, redness, and pain in the eyes. Doctors prescribe it for post-operative inflammation after cataract surgery or for anterior uveitis, an inflammation inside the eye. It comes in a sterile bottle for ophthalmic use, typically dosed 4 times daily initially, then tapered. Always follow your doctor's instructions, as side effects can include increased eye pressure, cataracts, or infection risk with prolonged use. This program provides the medication free to qualified patients, easing financial burden for those who can't afford it otherwise. ## Who Qualifies for NPAF? To qualify for free Durezol through NPAF, you must: - Live in the **United States or a U.S. territory**. - Have **limited or no prescription insurance** (uninsured or underinsured without coverage or unable to afford copays/out-of-pocket costs). - Meet **income guidelines** (at or below 400-500% of the Federal Poverty Level, depending on household size and medication). - Have a **valid prescription** from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider for outpatient treatment. NPAF verifies all info and reserves the right to adjust eligibility. Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com to check specific Durezol eligibility. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are based on your **household size** (from your tax return) and **400-500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. Use your most recent tax return (first 2 pages of Form 1040) as proof. If not required to file taxes, contact NPAF at 1-800-277-2254. Here's a sample table for 2026 FPL (estimates; check www.PAP.Novartis.com for exact current figures, as they update yearly): | Household Size | 400% FPL (Annual Income) | 500% FPL (Annual Income) | |----------------|---------------------------|---------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | ~$75,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | ~$101,000 | | 3 | ~$102,000 | ~$127,000 | | 4 | ~$123,000 | ~$154,000 | | +1 per member | +$21,000 | +$26,000 | **Notes**: Limits vary by medication and year. Provide exact income proof; estimates or incomplete docs cause delays/denials. ## Insurance Requirements NPAF is for **uninsured or underinsured patients**. You qualify if: - No prescription coverage at all. - Insured but can't afford medication (e.g., high copays). - Medicare patients denied **Extra Help** (submit denial letter). Submit **front/back copies of ALL insurance cards** (primary, secondary, Rx). If insured, include **Prior Authorization (PA) or appeal denial** from your plan. Health plans/specialty pharmacies can't enroll you—only patients/guardians.[1][2][3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Go to www.PAP.Novartis.com. Confirm Durezol qualifies and review income/requirements.[3] 2. **Download Form**: Get the application from www.PAP.Novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm EST).[4] 3. **Complete Patient Section**: Fill all fields—personal info, household size, income, insurance details. Sign/date Patient Authorization. Attach: - **Proof of income** (first 2 pages of 1040 tax return, W-2, paystubs, 1099, etc.). - **Proof of no insurance** or Extra Help/PA denial. - Insurance cards (front/back).[1][5][7] 4. **Doctor Completes Prescriber Section**: Your healthcare provider (HCP) fills their part, signs attestation, and attaches a **separate prescription** for Durezol. Include any PA denials.[2][4] 5. **Submit**: Fax **both sections** to 1-855-817-2711 **OR** mail to NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 (or current address on form). **Complete apps only**—incomplete ones delay/deny.[1][5][8] **Tip**: Use checklists in forms to avoid errors. Opt in for texts for updates.[3] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 2-4 weeks (up to 4 weeks for decision letter).[3][5] - If incomplete, get a letter/text with next steps. - **Approved**: Medication **ships directly to your home** (free supply, duration varies).[3] - **Reauthorization**: Yes, required for refills—resubmit periodically.[Program details] Call 1-800-277-2254 for status. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Review denial letter; resubmit missing docs or contact NPAF. - **Other Programs**: Check NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or Partnership for Prescription Assistance for Durezol alternatives. - **Manufacturer Copay Cards**: Insured? Ask your doctor about Novartis savings (not for gov't insurance). - **Generic Options**: No biosimilars listed; discuss difluprednate generics with HCP. - **State Programs**: Local Medicaid or charity clinics. - **Extra Help**: Medicare patients reapply if denied before.[6] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available NPAF details as of latest updates. Eligibility, processes, addresses, and FPL can change—**always verify at www.PAP.Novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254**. NPAF can modify/discontinue anytime. Not medical/financial advice; consult your doctor/pharmacist. Novartis not liable for application errors. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 29, 2026