Exjade

Indicated For

chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions, non-transfusion-dependent thalassemias

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Exjade (deferasirox) at Low or No Cost Exjade (deferasirox) is an oral medication used to treat chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions in patients with conditions like thalassemia or myelodysplastic syndromes. 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] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? To qualify for free Exjade through NPAF, you must: - Live in the United States or a U.S. territory.[2][5] - Have a valid prescription for Exjade from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider treating you on an outpatient basis.[2][5] - Meet **income guidelines**, typically up to **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits, and cases are evaluated individually.[1][5] - Have limited or **no prescription drug coverage** (public or private). Exceptions may apply for Medicare Part D or Part B cost-sharing.[1][2] This program helps uninsured or underinsured patients afford life-saving treatments like Exjade, which reduces excess iron in the body to prevent organ damage.[3] ## About Exjade (deferasirox) **Exjade** is a once-daily oral iron chelator prescribed for patients receiving frequent blood transfusions, which can cause iron buildup in the heart, liver, and other organs. Common uses include: - Transfusional iron overload in thalassemia patients aged 2 years and older. - Iron overload from non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia. - Chronic iron overload in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or other anemias. Take it as directed, usually mixed in liquid or applesauce. Side effects may include kidney problems, gastrointestinal issues, or skin rashes—discuss with your doctor. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions, as this guide focuses on access, not medical advice.[1][3] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on household income up to **400% of the FPL**, adjusted for household size. Use your most recent tax return (first two pages of Form 1040) as proof. If you don't file taxes, contact NPAF.[1][2][5] Here's a table of approximate 2026 FPL guidelines (check www.PAP.Novartis.com for exact current figures, as they update annually): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 400% FPL (Eligibility Limit) | |---------------|----------|------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $15,060 | **$60,240** | | 2 (Couple) | $20,440 | **$81,760** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$103,280** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$124,800** | *Add ~$5,380 per additional person for 100% FPL; multiply by 4 for limit. Alaska/Hawaii: Higher thresholds (e.g., individual ~$18,810 at 100% FPL). Case-by-case reviews possible.*[1][5] ## Insurance Requirements You generally need **no prescription drug coverage**. Provide copies (front/back) of all insurance cards, including primary, secondary, and prescription plans.[1][2] - If insured, include prior authorization (PA) or appeal denial if applicable.[1] - **Medicare patients**: Eligible if facing Part D or B cost-sharing burdens; no full coverage allowed.[1] - Exceptions are rare—confirm via (888) 903-7277 or www.PAP.Novartis.com.[3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com to confirm Exjade qualifies and review income limits.[2][3][5] 2. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (e.g., first 2 pages of 1040 tax return).[1][2] - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill).[1] - Valid Exjade prescription.[2][5] - Healthcare provider certification (doctor completes their section).[2][4] - Insurance cards (front/back).[1][2] 3. **Complete the Form**: Download from www.PAP.Novartis.com. Patient fills personal/income/insurance sections; doctor fills prescription and authorization.[1][2][4] 4. **Sign and Date**: Patient and doctor must sign.[1][4] 5. **Submit**: Fax to (855) 817-2711 or mail to NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 (or current address on form).[1][2][5] **Tip**: Incomplete apps delay or deny processing—double-check everything.[1][2][4] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Up to **4 weeks** for a decision letter (or text if opted in).[3][5] - If approved, medication ships free to your home or doctor's office.[1] - **Reauthorization**: Required annually or as specified—resubmit updated info.[1][8] ## Alternatives if Denied - Contact NPAF at (888) 903-7277 or 1-800-277-2254 (M-F, 9am-6pm EST) for reasons and next steps.[3][4][5] - Explore Novartis co-pay programs if insured (via www.novartis.com/patient-assistance).[9] - Check RxHope.com or NeedyMeds.org for other Exjade aid. - Ask your doctor about generic deferasirox or other chelators like Desferal. - State programs or Medicare Extra Help for low-income seniors.[6] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available NPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility, guidelines, and processes can change—always verify at www.PAP.Novartis.com or by calling (888) 903-7277. NPAF decisions are final. Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. Novartis disclaims liability for application outcomes.[1][2][3]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026