Ilaris

Indicated For

SJIA, CAPS, TRAPS, periodic fevers, gout

About This Medication

# ILARIS Companion Patient Guide: How to Get Ilaris (canakinumab) at Low or No Cost ILARIS Companion is Novartis's patient support program offering co-pay assistance, free trial offers, and enrollment services to help eligible patients access **Ilaris (canakinumab)**, a biologic medication for autoinflammatory conditions, at reduced or no cost.[1][2][7] ## About Ilaris (canakinumab) **Ilaris** is an injectable biologic drug that targets interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), a protein involved in inflammation. It is FDA-approved for treating rare autoinflammatory diseases, including: - Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS) - Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) - Hyperimmunoglobulin D syndrome/mevalonate kinase deficiency (HIDS/MKD) - Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) - Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA) - Gout flares in adults[7] Ilaris is administered via subcutaneous injection, typically every 4-8 weeks depending on the condition and patient response. Doses range from 150 mg to 600 mg based on body weight and indication. As a specialty medication, it can cost thousands per dose without assistance, making patient support programs essential for affordability.[9] ## Who Qualifies for ILARIS Companion? ILARIS Companion provides comprehensive support, including the **ILARIS Co-Pay Program** for commercially insured patients. Key eligibility: - **Commercial insurance** (not Medicare, Medicaid, or other government programs) - Valid prescription for Ilaris - U.S. residency The Co-Pay Program reduces out-of-pocket costs to **as low as $30 per fill**, with an **annual cap** (up to $36,000 in assistance).[3][6][7][9] A **free trial offer** provides one starter dose at no cost for new patients, regardless of insurance (terms apply).[2] For uninsured or underinsured patients, explore the **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)**, which may offer Ilaris at $0 per fill for those meeting income guidelines (often up to 400-500% FPL, though specifics vary).[6][8] **Note:** Government-insured patients are ineligible for co-pay assistance but may qualify for NPAF or state programs.[2][3] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown ILARIS Companion's Co-Pay Program has **no strict income thresholds**—it's primarily for commercially insured patients. However, NPAF (for uninsured/underinsured) typically requires household income below certain Federal Poverty Level (FPL) percentages. Exact thresholds aren't detailed here; contact Novartis for personalized assessment.[6][8] | Household Size | Estimated NPAF Income Limit (400% FPL example)* | Co-Pay Program | |---------------|--------------------------------------------------|----------------| | Individual | ~$60,000 | No income limit; commercial insurance required | | Couple | ~$80,000 | No income limit; commercial insurance required | | Family of 3 | ~$100,000 | No income limit; commercial insurance required | | Family of 4 | ~$120,000 | No income limit; commercial insurance required | *Estimates based on general Novartis programs; verify current FPL limits via 1-888-669-6682. Co-Pay Program focuses on insurance status, not income.[1][6] ## Insurance Requirements - **Eligible:** Commercial/private insurance (e.g., employer-sponsored, marketplace plans) - **Ineligible:** Medicare, Medicaid, VA, Tricare, or other federal/state programs[2][3][7] - Program covers co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles up to the annual maximum - Works with prior authorizations (PA); ILARIS Companion helps track coverage and appeals[1][2][9] If insured through government programs, pivot to NPAF or alternatives like Prescription Hope ($60/month flat rate, works with insurance).[8] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Discuss with your doctor:** Confirm Ilaris is appropriate. Have them complete the **ILARIS Start Form** (prescription + enrollment).[5] 2. **Contact ILARIS Companion:** Call **1-866-972-8315** (Mon-Fri, 9 AM-6 PM ET) to enroll. Provide insurance details and sign up for services.[1][2] 3. **Complete Co-Pay Authorization:** Download the form from ilaris.opushealth.com, sign electronically, or via phone. Authorize payments to providers/pharmacies.[4] 4. **Fax Start Form:** Doctor faxes signed form to **1-866-972-8316**. Both doctor and patient signatures required.[5] 5. **Receive card/ID:** Get co-pay card for pharmacy use. Automatic enrollment in Companion services (reminders, coverage checks).[7] For NPAF: Apply separately through Novartis Patient Support at **1-888-669-6682**.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Enrollment:** Immediate upon call; forms processed in days[1] - **First dose (Free Trial):** Ships quickly for new patients[2] - **Co-Pay activation:** Use at next fill; savings apply instantly at participating pharmacies - **Ongoing refills:** Companion manages refills, PA renewals, and deliveries (specialty pharmacy often used)[1][5] - **NPAF processing:** 2-4 weeks for approval and delivery[8] Expect medication via specialty pharmacy; home delivery options available. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Appeal insurance denial:** ILARIS Companion assists with PA/appeals (e.g., 180-day window for UHC)[9] - **NPAF for uninsured:** $0 cost if income-qualified[6] - **Prescription Hope:** $60/month flat fee, works alongside insurance[8] - **Other foundations:** Check rxassist.org or hospital charity care[10] - **Biosimilars:** None currently available for canakinumab[ ] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical or financial advice. Program terms, eligibility, and benefits can change; Novartis reserves the right to amend/revoke without notice. Limitations apply. Contact ILARIS Companion (1-866-972-8315) or your healthcare provider for latest details. Not valid where prohibited by law. Always follow your prescribed treatment plan.[2][4]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026