Gleevec

Indicated For

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST), Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL)

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) Patient Guide: How to Get Gleevec (imatinib) at Low or No Cost This guide explains how the **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** can provide **Gleevec (imatinib)** for free to eligible patients. Gleevec is a targeted therapy medication used to treat certain cancers, and NPAF helps uninsured or underinsured U.S. residents access it without high costs.[5][4] ## About Gleevec (imatinib) **Gleevec**, also known as imatinib mesylate, is an oral prescription drug that blocks enzymes called tyrosine kinases, which fuel the growth of cancer cells. It is FDA-approved for several serious conditions, including: - **Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)**: For newly diagnosed adults and children with Philadelphia chromosome-positive CML in chronic phase, or in blast crisis, accelerated phase, or after interferon-alpha failure.[1] - **Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)**: Relapsed or refractory Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL in adults, or newly diagnosed Ph+ ALL in children combined with chemotherapy.[1] - **Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST)**: Kit (CD117) positive unresectable or metastatic GIST, or adjuvant therapy after surgery for high-risk patients (typically 3 years).[1] - Other uses: Myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases with PDGFR rearrangements, aggressive systemic mastocytosis (without D816V c-Kit mutation), hypereosinophilic syndrome/chronic eosinophilic leukemia, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.[1] Approved for both adults and children (dosing based on age, weight, condition), Gleevec is often taken daily, sometimes indefinitely if effective. Before starting, doctors check blood counts, liver/kidney function, heart health, and pregnancy status.[1] Generic imatinib is available, but NPAF provides brand-name Gleevec.[1][5] ## Who Qualifies for NPAF? NPAF is for **U.S. residents** (or U.S. territories) facing financial hardship with Gleevec costs. Key requirements: - **Limited or no prescription drug coverage**: Uninsured, underinsured, or those with plans not covering Gleevec adequately. Medicare/Medicaid patients may qualify through NPAF or related foundations.[1][4][5] - **Income up to 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**: For uninsured/underinsured households. Medicare patients have stricter limits (e.g., ≤$81,760 for household of 2).[6] - Valid prescription from a U.S. licensed healthcare provider for outpatient treatment.[4] - Proof of residency and income.[2] **NPAF does not cover patients with full private/public prescription coverage.**[8][9] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility hinges on **household gross income** up to **500% FPL** (adjusted yearly; check www.PAP.Novartis.com for current charts). Here's a sample table based on 2026 FPL guidelines (approximate; verify latest): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 500% FPL Threshold | |---------------|----------|---------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | $75,300 | | 2 | $20,440 | $102,200 | | 3 | $25,820 | $129,100 | | 4 | $31,200 | $156,000 | *Add ~$5,380 per additional person for 100% FPL, scaling to 500%.* Medicare: Lower caps apply (e.g., $81,760 max for 2-person household).[6] Include all income: wages, Social Security, disability, unemployment, alimony/child support.[2] Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com for exact limits by drug/household.[4] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured or underinsured**: Primary option—no or limited coverage for Gleevec.[5] - **Medicare Part D/Medicaid**: May qualify if income meets limits; explore Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy first to reduce copays/deductibles. Foundations cover gaps like donut hole.[1][3] - **Commercial insurance**: NPAF unlikely if full coverage; try copay cards instead.[1] - Submit front/back of insurance cards; note any denials or gaps.[2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process NPAF offers **multiple application methods** (online, mail, fax; check www.PAP.Novartis.com).[2][4] 1. **Verify eligibility**: Use www.PAP.Novartis.com income chart and confirm limited coverage.[4] 2. **Gather documents**: - **Proof of residency** (e.g., utility bill, driver's license). - **Proof of income** (tax returns, pay stubs, benefit statements for all household). - **Prescription** (signed by doctor; fax original if required by state like NY/DE).[2] - **Insurance info** (cards, denial letters if applicable).[2] 3. **Complete application**: Download from www.PAP.Novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254. Patient signs Section A; doctor completes/signs Sections A/B and Rx.[2][4] 4. **Doctor involvement**: Discuss with oncologist; they authorize info sharing and submit.[2] 5. **Submit**: Mail/fax with docs. Checklist: All blanks filled, docs attached, signatures/dates.[2] 6. **Follow up**: Call 1-800-277-2254 if changes in income/insurance.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time varies (not specified; often weeks). If approved, **Gleevec ships free to doctor's office or home**.[5] **Reauthorization required** periodically—resubmit proof before refill.[2] Report changes promptly. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Copay cards**: Commercial insurance—Gleevec/imatinib cards reduce out-of-pocket.[1] - **Foundations**: Cancer grants (e.g., Life Raft Group for GIST, Extra Help for Medicare).[1][3] - **Generic imatinib**: Cheaper; copay assistance available.[1] - **State programs**, prior auth help, specialty pharmacies like QuickRx (free enrollment).[1] - Reapply if circumstances change; explore RxAssist.org.[9] **No biosimilar alternatives** listed for Gleevec. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical/financial advice. Eligibility, FPL, policies change—always check www.PAP.Novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254. Consult your doctor/pharmacist. NPAF not guaranteed; false info may disqualify. Income includes all household sources.[2][4] (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026