HERZUMA

Indicated For

HER2-positive breast cancer, HER2-positive gastric cancer

About This Medication

# Teva HERZUMA Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get HERZUMA (trastuzumab-pkrb) at Low or No Cost HERZUMA (trastuzumab-pkrb) is a biosimilar medication manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., designed to help adults with certain HER2-positive cancers access affordable treatment through potential patient assistance programs. This guide explains eligibility, application steps, and options when specific program details are unavailable, empowering you to seek help effectively.[1][2] ## About HERZUMA **HERZUMA** is an intravenous (IV) infusion medication that targets the HER2/neu receptor, used to treat **HER2-overexpressing breast cancer** (both early-stage adjuvant and metastatic) and **HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma**. It works by blocking proteins that promote cancer cell growth, often combined with chemotherapy like paclitaxel, docetaxel, or carboplatin.[1][2] Key uses include: - Adjuvant breast cancer: Initial 4 mg/kg loading dose over 90 minutes, followed by weekly 2 mg/kg or every-3-weeks 6 mg/kg for up to 52 weeks. - Metastatic breast cancer: 4 mg/kg loading, then 2 mg/kg weekly. - Gastric cancer: 8 mg/kg loading, then 6 mg/kg every 3 weeks.[1] **Important safety notes**: HERZUMA carries **boxed warnings** for cardiomyopathy (heart failure risk, especially with anthracyclines), infusion reactions, pulmonary toxicity, and embryo-fetal toxicity (avoid pregnancy; use contraception). Cardiac function must be monitored before and during treatment. It's available as 150 mg single-dose or 420 mg multiple-dose vials.[1] As a biosimilar to Herceptin (trastuzumab), HERZUMA has the same FDA-approved indications and is supported by NCCN guidelines as an appropriate substitute.[2] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? Teva Pharmaceuticals offers patient assistance for eligible patients facing high costs, though exact program details like income thresholds are not publicly specified in available resources. Generally, manufacturers like Teva provide free or low-cost HERZUMA to uninsured or underinsured U.S. residents with financial need.[1] Typical qualifications (based on standard pharmaceutical programs): - U.S. resident or citizen. - Prescription for FDA-approved use (HER2-positive cancers confirmed by FDA-approved testing). - Household income below a federal poverty level (FPL) threshold, often 400-500% FPL. - Limited or no prescription insurance coverage. Since specific income data is unavailable, contact Teva directly for your situation. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Detailed income thresholds for Teva's HERZUMA program are not listed in current sources. Patient assistance often aligns with FPL guidelines. Here's a general table based on 2026 U.S. FPL estimates (adjust for your state; confirm with Teva): | Household Size | 400% FPL (Example Threshold) | 500% FPL (Higher Threshold) | |----------------|------------------------------|-----------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | ~$75,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | ~$101,000 | | 3 | ~$102,000 | ~$127,000 | | 4 | ~$123,000 | ~$154,000 | *Notes*: Thresholds may vary; some programs exclude high assets or require proof of denial from other aid. Medicare patients may have separate copay programs.[2] ## Insurance Requirements Assistance typically requires: - Proof of insurance denial or high copays (>5-10% of income). - Medicare Part D enrollees often ineligible for free drug but may qualify for copay assistance. - No government insurance restrictions in many cases, but commercial insurance gaps preferred.[2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Consult your oncologist**: Confirm HER2 testing and HERZUMA prescription. Oncologist specialty often required.[2] 2. **Contact Teva**: Call Teva's patient assistance line (search 'Teva patient assistance' or 888-483-8328 for general support) or visit their website for HERZUMA forms.[1] 3. **Gather documents**: Application, proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), prescription, insurance info, doctor's statement. 4. **Submit**: Online, mail, or fax. Physician may need to complete sections. 5. **Follow up**: Track status via phone. ## Timeline and Delivery Processing often takes 2-4 weeks; medication ships to your doctor's office or pharmacy for IV infusion. Refills require reauthorization, typically every 6-12 months.[2] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Biosimilar options**: Kanjinti, Ogivri, Ontruzant, Trazimera, Hercessi—similar programs from other manufacturers.[2] - **Other aid**: NeedyMeds, RxAssist, PAN Foundation, or state programs. - **Appeal**: Resubmit with more docs; doctor can advocate. - **Clinical trials** or hospital charity care. ## Disclaimer This guide uses available data as of 2026 but is not official Teva advice. Program details change; verify with Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. Not medical advice—discuss risks/benefits with your doctor. Assistance not guaranteed; individual results vary.[1][2] (Word count: 912)

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026