Femara

Indicated For

postmenopausal breast cancer

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Femara (letrozole) at Low or No Cost Femara (letrozole) is a prescription medication used primarily to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** offers Femara at no cost to eligible patients who meet specific income, residency, and insurance criteria.[1][2][3] ## About Femara (letrozole) **Femara** is an aromatase inhibitor that lowers estrogen levels in the body, helping to slow or stop the growth of certain breast cancers. It's typically taken as a daily oral tablet, often after surgery or other treatments. Common uses include adjuvant therapy (after surgery), extended therapy, or first-line treatment for advanced breast cancer. Always follow your healthcare provider's (HCP) instructions, as dosage is usually 2.5 mg once daily. Side effects may include hot flashes, joint pain, fatigue, or bone thinning—discuss these with your doctor.[1][2] This guide explains how the NPAF program can help you access Femara if costs are a barrier. The program provides free medication for up to one year, with reauthorization possible.[3] ## Who Qualifies for NPAF? To qualify, you must: - Reside in the United States or a U.S. territory.[2][5] - Have limited or no prescription insurance coverage (uninsured or underinsured who can't afford the medication).[1][2][7] - Meet household income guidelines, typically up to **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**.[provided data] - Have a valid prescription for Femara from a licensed U.S. HCP treating you on an outpatient basis.[2][5] NPAF serves patients facing financial hardship. Even if insured, you may qualify if your plan denies coverage (e.g., via prior authorization denial).[1] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are based on household size from your tax return (Form 1040) and **400% FPL**, though guidelines can vary by state (higher in AK/HI) and medication—often 200-400% FPL. Provide the first two pages of your most recent 1040 tax return as proof. If you don't file taxes, contact NPAF.[1][2][5][provided data] Here's a table of approximate **2026 annual income thresholds at 400% FPL** (continental U.S.; check pap.novartis.com for exact figures, as they update yearly): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (400% FPL) | |----------------|------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $60,320 | | 2 (Couple) | $81,760 | | 3 | $103,200 | | 4 | $124,640 | *Notes: Add ~$21,440 per additional person. AK/HI limits are higher (e.g., ~$75,400 for 1 in AK). Confirm current FPL multipliers at www.PAP.Novartis.com, as they vary.[1][2][5][provided data]* ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Fully eligible if other criteria met.[2][7] - **Underinsured**: May qualify if you can't afford copays/out-of-pocket costs or if insurance denies coverage (submit prior authorization/appeal denial).[1][2] - Submit front/back copies of **all** insurance cards (primary, secondary, prescription).[1][2] Medicare patients often qualify if they lack supplemental coverage or face high costs. NPAF does not cover patients with active prescription coverage that meets the medication's needs.[2][5] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com to confirm Femara is covered and review income limits.[2][3][5] 2. **Download Application**: Get the form from the site or call (800) 277-2254 / (800) 282-7630.[1][4][5][provided data] 3. **Complete Patient Section**: Fill in personal info, income, insurance details, and sign authorizations. Attach: - Proof of income (first 2 pages of 1040 tax return). - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill). - Insurance cards (front/back). - Prescription for Femara.[1][2][5][provided data] 4. **HCP Section**: Your doctor completes their part, signs, and provides prescription/medical info.[2][4] 5. **Submit**: Fax to 1-855-817-2711 or mail to NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 (or PO Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029—use latest address).[1][2][4][5][provided data] **Tip**: Applications must be complete—missing info causes delays/denials. Opt in for text updates.[1][3] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: About **4 weeks** from receipt of complete application. You'll get a letter (and text if opted in) with next steps or decision.[3][5][provided data] - **Delivery**: If approved, Femara ships free to your home or doctor's office.[provided data] - **Supply**: Typically 1-12 months; reauthorization needed annually.[provided data] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Review denial letter; resubmit with missing info or updated documents.[3][6] - **Other Programs**: Check NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or state programs. Simplefill or RxHope may help navigate options.[9][7] - **Manufacturer Copay Cards**: Novartis may offer savings for commercially insured (not via NPAF).[5] - **Generic letrozole**: Cheaper alternatives exist; discuss with HCP. - Contact NPAF at (800) 277-2254 for guidance.[4][5] ## Reauthorization and Refills Approved patients request refills via HCP or by contacting NPAF. Reauthorization requires updated income/insurance proof yearly.[provided data][2] ## Important 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 (800) 277-2254. NPAF decisions are final. This is not medical/financial advice; consult your HCP and a financial advisor. Novartis disclaims liability for application outcomes.[1][2][3] *Word count: ~950*

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026