Iressa

Indicated For

non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

About This Medication

# Iressa (Gefitinib) Patient Guide: How to Get Iressa at Low or No Cost Iressa (gefitinib) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of **advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)** in adults. This guide explains how to access it through AstraZeneca's **AZ&Me Prescription Savings Program**, which provides the drug free of charge to eligible uninsured or Medicare patients struggling with costs[1]. ## About Iressa (Gefitinib) **Iressa** is a targeted therapy known as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It works by blocking proteins that cause cancer cells to grow and divide, specifically targeting tumors with EGFR mutations in NSCLC[1]. It's taken as a daily oral tablet, typically 250 mg once a day, with or without food. Common side effects include diarrhea, rash, fatigue, nausea, and lung problems—always discuss risks with your doctor. Approved by the FDA for first-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC with specific EGFR mutations, Iressa offers an alternative to chemotherapy for eligible patients. It's available as a brand from **AstraZeneca** and potentially as a generic from **Ingenus**, though assistance programs primarily cover the brand[1]. Without insurance, a month's supply can cost over $10,000, making patient assistance crucial. ## Who Qualifies for AZ&Me? The **AZ&Me Prescription Savings Program** helps U.S. residents who meet strict criteria. Key requirements include: - A valid prescription for Iressa from your doctor. - Residency in the U.S. - **No private insurance or government prescription coverage** (except Medicare; Medicare patients must not be enrolled in Low-Income Subsidy/LIS for Part D). - Household income below program guidelines (typically **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** or less, though exact thresholds vary—see table below). - Assistance lasts **12 months**, with option to reapply[1]. Private insurance holders may qualify for separate co-pay cards, but AZ&Me focuses on uninsured/Medicare[1]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown AZ&Me bases eligibility on **total household income** compared to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). While exact figures aren't always listed publicly and can update yearly, programs like this commonly use up to **400-500% FPL**. Contact the program for your situation. Here's a sample table based on 2026 FPL estimates (confirm current levels): | Household Size | 400% FPL (Annual Income) | Notes | |---------------|---------------------------|-------| | **1 (Individual)** | ~$60,000 | Common threshold; higher for some programs. | | **2 (Couple)** | ~$81,000 | Add ~$21,000 per extra person. | | **3** | ~$102,000 | Includes all household dependents. | | **4** | ~$123,000 | Assets may be reviewed. | *Notes: Income includes wages, Social Security, etc. Deductions for medical expenses possible. Always verify with AZ&Me as guidelines adjust annually[1].* ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Fully eligible if other criteria met. - **Medicare**: Eligible if no Part D coverage or LIS; program ships free meds directly. - **Private Insurance**: Not eligible for free meds via AZ&Me; use co-pay assistance instead (up to $0 copay for eligible specialty drugs like Iressa). - **Medicaid/Other Government**: Generally ineligible[1]. If you have insurance, explore Simplefill or other advocates to match you with options[1]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get Prescribed**: Ask your oncologist for an Iressa prescription and confirm it's covered by AZ&Me. 2. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, SSI letters—last 1-3 months). - Proof of residency (utility bill, lease). - Prescription copy. - Insurance status proof (benefits summary or 'no coverage' letter). - Doctor's info and patient ID[1]. 3. **Apply via Simplefill (Recommended)**: Call **(877) 386-0206** or apply online at simplefill.com. A patient advocate reviews your case within hours, handles paperwork, and submits to AZ&Me[1]. *Direct AZ&Me*: Visit azandme.com or call program line (details via doctor/pharmacy). 4. **Doctor Signs**: Your physician completes the application section. 5. **Submit**: Mail/fax/upload. Simplefill streamlines this. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 1-2 weeks after complete submission; Simplefill speeds it up[1]. - **Delivery**: Free meds shipped directly to your home or doctor's office in 7-10 days post-approval. Covers 1-3 months supply initially. - **Refills**: Auto-ship or reapply every 12 months; notify of changes[1]. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Generic Gefitinib**: Check Ingenus programs or pharmacies for lower costs. - **Other PAPs**: Partnership for Prescription Assistance (pparx.org), NeedyMeds, or RxAssist.org[2]. - **Co-Pay Cards**: AstraZeneca specialty co-pay program for insured (search 'Iressa savings card'). - **State Programs**: Medicaid expansion or charity care. - **Manufacturer Biosimilars**: None listed for Iressa[1][2]. - **Simplefill**: Matches to 1,000+ programs if AZ&Me denies[1]. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. Eligibility, income limits, and processes can change—**always contact AZ&Me or Simplefill directly for personalized advice**. Not medical advice; consult your healthcare provider. AstraZeneca/Ingenus reserve rights to modify programs. Success not guaranteed.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026