Exelon

Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Exelon (rivastigmine) at Low or No Cost

Exelon (rivastigmine) is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of mild to moderate dementia due to Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. The Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) offers this drug at no cost to eligible patients who meet specific income, residency, and insurance criteria.[1][2][3]

About Exelon (rivastigmine)

Exelon helps improve memory, attention, and daily functioning in people with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's-related dementia by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a brain chemical involved in learning and memory. It comes as oral capsules, oral solution, or transdermal patches applied to the skin. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dizziness, and skin irritation (for patches). Always follow your doctor's instructions for use, starting at a low dose to minimize side effects. This guide focuses on accessing Exelon through NPAF, not medical advice—consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.[1][2]

Who Qualifies for the NPAF Program?

To qualify for free Exelon through NPAF, you must:

• Reside in the United States or a U.S. territory.[3][6]
• Have a valid prescription from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider for outpatient treatment.[3][6]
• Meet income guidelines based on household size and Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which vary by product—check www.PAP.Novartis.com for Exelon-specific limits.[1][3][6]
• Have limited or no prescription drug coverage (public or private).[1][2][3]

Alaska and Hawaii residents have adjusted income limits. Third-party insurance or pharmacy benefit managers cannot enroll you.[2]

Income Eligibility Breakdown

NPAF uses a sliding scale tied to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), typically up to 400-500% FPL depending on the drug and household size (exact % varies; confirm on www.PAP.Novartis.com). Provide proof like the first two pages of your most recent 1040 tax return.[1][3][6]

Here's a general example table based on 2026 FPL guidelines (visit PAP.Novartis.com for precise Exelon thresholds):

*Notes: Add ~$21,000 per additional person in contiguous US. If not required to file taxes, contact NPAF at (800) 277-2254. Guidelines subject to change.[1][3][6]

Insurance Requirements

You must have no prescription drug coverage from any public (e.g., Medicare Part D) or private insurance. Submit copies of all insurance cards (front/back)—even if none, note it.[1][2][3] If insured but require prior authorization (PA), include PA/appeal denial. Evidence of Extra Help denial may be needed if applicable.[1][2]

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Check Eligibility: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com to confirm Exelon income limits and your qualifications.[2][3][6]
2. Download Form: Get the application from www.PAP.Novartis.com or call (800) 277-2254 (Mon-Fri, 9 AM-6 PM ET).[1][2][4]
3. Complete Patient Section: Fill in personal info, household size, income, insurance details. Sign patient authorization.[1][3]
4. Gather Documents:
   • Proof of income (e.g., first 2 pages of 1040 tax return, W-2, pay stubs, 1099).[1][3][6][8]
   • All insurance cards (front/back).[1][3]
   • Evidence of Extra Help denial if applicable.[2]
5. Doctor Completes Section: Your healthcare provider (HCP) fills prescriber section, includes valid Exelon prescription, signs authorizations. Provide PA denial if relevant.[1][3][4]
6. Submit: Fax to 1-855-817-2711 or mail to NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 (or current address on form). Applications must be complete—incomplete ones delay or deny.[1][2][3][6]

Patient and HCP sections can be submitted separately via fax, but ensure coordination.[4]

Timeline and Delivery

Expect a decision letter within 4 weeks of submission. If incomplete, you'll get a letter/text with next steps.[2] Approved medication is shipped directly to you at no cost, typically for 1-12 months supply depending on guidelines.[2][6] Track status by calling (800) 277-2254.

Reauthorization and Refills

Reauthorization is required periodically (e.g., annually). Resubmit updated application, income proof, and prescription when supply runs low. Your doctor must reconfirm need.[1][2]

Alternatives if Denied

• Appeal: Review denial letter; resubmit missing info or contact NPAF.[2][7]
• Other Programs: Apply for Medicare Extra Help, State Pharmaceutical Assistance, or NeedyMeds.org resources.
• Patient Support: Call NPAF for guidance or explore Novartis co-pay programs if partially insured (separate eligibility).[5][9]
• Generic Options: Discuss rivastigmine generics with your doctor if cheaper.
• Simplefill: Free service to match assistance programs (877-386-0206).[9]

Important Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available NPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility, income limits, addresses, and terms can change—always verify at www.PAP.Novartis.com or (800) 277-2254. NPAF reserves the right to modify/discontinue the program. Not affiliated with Novartis; consult your doctor for medical decisions. Incomplete applications delay/deny aid. Word count: 1028.