Esbriet

Indicated For

idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

About This Medication

# Genentech Patient Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Esbriet (pirfenidone) at Low or No Cost Esbriet (pirfenidone) is a prescription medication used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic lung disease that causes scarring and makes breathing difficult. The **Genentech Patient Foundation** offers free Esbriet to eligible patients who are uninsured or insured but cannot afford their out-of-pocket costs, providing up to one year of medication at no cost if approved[1][2][4][5]. ## About Esbriet (pirfenidone) **Esbriet** slows the progression of IPF by reducing lung fibrosis and inflammation. It's typically taken three times a day with food, starting at a low dose that gradually increases to minimize side effects like nausea, dizziness, or sun sensitivity. Always follow your doctor's instructions, and report side effects promptly. This program helps ensure access to this important therapy without financial barriers for those who qualify[5]. ## Who Qualifies for the Genentech Patient Foundation? Eligibility focuses on financial need and residency. You must live in the US or Puerto Rico and be treated by a US-licensed physician. The program supports patients who: - Are uninsured. - Have insurance but lack coverage for Esbriet or face unaffordable costs (e.g., out-of-pocket maximum over 7.5% of yearly income). - Meet household income guidelines, such as under $150,000 for certain cases (specific Federal Poverty Level percentages not detailed publicly; call for details)[1][4][5]. No citizenship or immigration info is required. Medicare patients may qualify if costs are unaffordable[5]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Exact income thresholds vary by household size and are based on guidelines like Federal Poverty Levels (FPL), but specifics aren't publicly listed. Examples from program materials include households under $150,000 qualifying in some scenarios. Contact (888) 941-3331 for your personalized assessment[1][4][5]. | Household Size | Example Max Income (Approximate, Verify by Phone) | Notes | |---------------|--------------------------------------------------|-------| | 1 | Under $150,000 (varies by FPL) | Call for exact FPL % [5] | | 2 | Under $150,000 (varies by FPL) | Household income based [1] | | 3 | Under $150,000 (varies by FPL) | Includes all household members [1] | | 4+ | Scales with FPL guidelines | Specifics via phone [4] | **Note**: These are illustrative; eligibility is determined case-by-case. Provide household size and income on the form[1]. ## Insurance Requirements The program is open to **commercially insured**, **uninsured**, and some **government-insured** patients (including Medicare) if the medicine is unaffordable or not covered. It doesn't cover patients whose insurance forbids assistance applications. No proof of denial is needed upfront[2][4][5][7]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying is straightforward and free. Both you and your doctor must complete forms. Here's how: 1. **Check Eligibility**: Call (888) 941-3331 (Mon-Fri, 6 a.m.–5 p.m. PT) or visit GenentechPatientFoundation.com to discuss your situation with a Foundation Specialist[2][4][7]. 2. **Complete Patient Consent Form**: Fill out Boxes 1 & 2 (English/Spanish available). Include personal info, household size, insurance status, and sign. No proof of income/residency required on form, but may be requested later[1][2][3][6]. 3. **Doctor Completes Prescriber Foundation Form**: Provide diagnosis (e.g., IPF code), prescription for Esbriet, treatment info, and shipment choice (patient home, doctor's office, or product replacement). Doctor attests medical necessity[1][5]. 4. **Submit Forms**: - **Fax**: (833) 999-4363 (both forms)[1][2][3]. - **Text**: Photo of signed Patient Consent to (650) 877-1111[2][3]. - **Online**: Via My Patient Solutions (doctor's account) or eSubmit[2][3][4]. Both forms required; processing starts within 5 business days[2]. 5. **Await Contact**: You'll and your doctor be called with the outcome[1][2][3]. **Required Documents**: Prescription, proof of income/residency (if requested), completed forms[1]. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 5 business days after receiving both forms; then contacted[2]. - **Approval**: Up to 1 year of free Esbriet, shipped upfront to home/practice or replaces doctor's inventory[1][4]. - **Refills**: Automatic if still eligible; no re-enrollment needed yearly[4]. Reauthorization may apply for continued therapy. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal Insurance**: File with your plan while reapplying[7]. - **Other Genentech Support**: Call (866) 422-2377 for copay help, access solutions[3]. - **State Programs**: Check local assistance via Foundation Specialist[7]. - **Reapply**: If circumstances change[2]. - **No Biosimilars**: None available for Esbriet. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of 2026. Eligibility, processes, and terms can change; always verify with Genentech at (888) 941-3331. Not medical advice—consult your doctor. Genentech not liable for application errors. Program for US/Puerto Rico residents only[1][2][4][5]. (Word count: 942)

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026