Eldepryl

Indicated For

Parkinson's disease

About This Medication

# Eldepryl (Selegiline) Patient Guide: How to Get Help at Low or No Cost Eldepryl (selegiline) is no longer available as a brand-name product in the U.S., but generic selegiline remains accessible for Parkinson's disease treatment through various assistance options like Medicare programs and foundations.[4] This guide explains eligibility for help programs, the medication itself, and steps to reduce costs, focusing on patient-friendly resources since no specific manufacturer program exists.[1][5] ## About Eldepryl (Selegiline) **Eldepryl**, the brand name for **selegiline**, is a medication approved by the FDA in 1989 to treat motor symptoms of **Parkinson's disease**.[3][7] It belongs to a class of drugs called **monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)**, specifically MAO-B inhibitors, which work by preventing the breakdown of **dopamine** in the brain—a chemical messenger low in Parkinson's patients.[2][6][9] This increases dopamine levels, helping reduce symptoms like tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), and "off" episodes when other treatments like levodopa/carbidopa wear off.[1][4] Selegiline is typically used as an **add-on therapy** with levodopa/carbidopa (e.g., Sinemet), extending their effects and sometimes allowing lower doses to minimize side effects.[2][4][9] It's taken orally as 5 mg tablets twice daily with breakfast and lunch, never in the evening to avoid insomnia.[3][4] Do not stop suddenly—taper under doctor guidance to prevent withdrawal.[3] Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, vivid dreams, and unusual movements; seek immediate help for severe reactions like hives or breathing issues.[3] It's not a cure but helps manage symptoms, and generics make it more affordable.[9] **Note**: Brand Eldepryl was discontinued (not due to safety issues), but generic selegiline is widely available.[4] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? No dedicated manufacturer patient assistance program (PAP) exists for Eldepryl/selegiline, as program details are unavailable and the brand is discontinued.[4] Instead, qualify through federal, state, or foundation programs targeting low-income or Medicare patients with Parkinson's.[1][5] Key options: - **Medicare Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy/LIS)**: For Part D enrollees with income/assets below thresholds. Benefits: $0 premiums/deductibles, low copays.[1] - **HealthWell Foundation Parkinson's Medicare Access**: Covers prescription costs for Parkinson's drugs like selegiline for Medicare patients.[5] - **State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)**: Vary by state; check your Department of Aging.[1][9] General eligibility focuses on financial need, Medicare status, and U.S. residency. Doctors confirm medical need via prescription.[3] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific PAP thresholds are unavailable, but **Medicare Extra Help** uses Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines (updated annually; check SSA.gov).[1] As of recent data, approximate 2026 thresholds (subject to change): | Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Asset Limit (excl. home/car) | |----------------|----------------------|------------------------------| | **Individual** | ≤ 150% FPL (~$2,150) | ≤ $17,550 | | **Couple** | ≤ 150% FPL (~$2,900) | ≤ $35,000 | | **Family of 3**| ≤ 150% FPL (~$3,650) | ≤ $35,000 | | **Family of 4**| ≤ 150% FPL (~$4,400) | ≤ $35,000 | *Notes*: Full LIS at 135% FPL; partial at 150%. Alaska/Hawaii higher. Excludes certain assets. HealthWell has separate criteria—apply online.[1][5] Confirm current FPL at ssa.gov. ## Insurance Requirements Most programs require **Medicare Part D** or equivalent; Extra Help is Part D-specific.[1][5] Medicare Advantage with Rx may qualify for Payment Plan (spread copays monthly).[1] Private insurance? Check 90-day supplies for lower copays via mail-order.[1] Uninsured? Foundations like HealthWell assist Medicare patients.[5] No active insurance often needed for state programs.[1] Always disclose coverage—some PAPs exclude insured patients. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a Prescription**: Discuss selegiline with your neurologist; confirm it's right for you (e.g., with levodopa).[2][3] 2. **Check Medicare Extra Help**: Apply via SSA (ssa.gov/extrahelp) or call 1-800-772-1213. Provide income proof.[1] 3. **Apply to HealthWell Foundation**: Go to healthwellfoundation.org, use patient portal (10-min app, real-time review). Need diagnosis proof, income, Medicare details.[5] 4. **State Programs**: Contact state Dept. of Aging or BenefitsCheckUp.org.[1] 5. **Pharmacy Options**: Use GoodRx coupons for generics or 90-day fills.[1] 6. **Gather Docs**: See below. 7. **Submit**: Online portals preferred; track status.[5] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Extra Help**: 4-6 weeks processing.[1] - **HealthWell**: Real-time approval; meds ship via partnered pharmacies.[5] - Delivery: Mail-order common (e.g., 90-day supply); pickup at local pharmacy possible.[1] Expect 7-14 days post-approval for first fill. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Generic Selegiline**: Cheaper than brand; use discount cards (GoodRx).[1][9] - **90-Day Supplies**: Lower copays.[1] - **Medicare Payment Plan**: Spread costs.[1] - **Other Foundations**: PAN Foundation or Patient Access Network for Parkinson's. - **Telehealth Prescriptions**: Affordable online options.[8] - **Biosimilars/Alternatives**: None listed; consider other MAOIs or dopamine agonists per doctor. ## Disclaimer This guide provides general info based on available resources as of 2026; it's not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor/pharmacist. Program details change—verify at sources like ssa.gov, healthwellfoundation.org. Eligibility not guaranteed. Word count: 950.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026