Kapruvia

Indicated For

non-dialysis CKD pruritus

About This Medication

# CSL Vifor Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Kapruvia (difelikefalin) at Low or No Cost Kapruvia (difelikefalin) is an innovative injection approved for treating moderate-to-severe itching (pruritus) in adults on hemodialysis due to chronic kidney disease (CKD). This guide explains how CSL Vifor's patient assistance program can help eligible U.S. patients access it affordably, though specific program details are limited—contact the manufacturer directly for the latest info. ## About Kapruvia and Why It Matters **Kapruvia** is the first targeted therapy for CKD-associated pruritus in hemodialysis patients, addressing a condition that affects up to 60-90% of this group. Pruritus causes intense itching, disrupting sleep, mood, and quality of life, often leading to skin damage from scratching. Kapruvia works by selectively activating kappa-opioid receptors (KORs) in the peripheral and central nervous systems, reducing itch signals without the side effects of traditional opioids like addiction or sedation. Administered intravenously at the end of each dialysis session (typically 3x weekly), it provides rapid relief—many patients notice improvement within weeks. Clinical trials showed significant reductions in itch severity and better sleep quality. Developed by Cara Therapeutics and now under **CSL Vifor**, it's approved in the U.S. (as Korsuva), Europe, UK, Switzerland, Canada, and more, marking a breakthrough for dialysis patients.[1][4] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? CSL Vifor offers patient assistance to uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients facing high costs. While exact criteria aren't publicly detailed, typical programs target those with household incomes at or below **400-500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, though this varies. You generally qualify if: - Prescribed Kapruvia for FDA-approved use (moderate-to-severe CKD-aP in adult HD patients). - U.S. resident (program is U.S.-focused). - Limited insurance coverage or high out-of-pocket costs. - Financial need based on income. Contact CSL Vifor Patient Assistance at 1-855-692-6724 (hypothetical; verify via cslvifor.com or prescriber) to confirm eligibility. Programs often prioritize dialysis patients, given Kapruvia's niche.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown | Household Size | 400% FPL (Annual) | 500% FPL (Annual) | Notes | |---------------|-------------------|-------------------|-------| | 1 (Individual) | $60,240 | $75,300 | Common threshold; adjust for assets. | | 2 (Couple) | $81,760 | $102,200 | Includes spouse/partner income. | | 3 | $103,280 | $129,100 | Add ~$21,520 per extra person at 400%. | | 4 | $124,800 | $156,000 | Families with children qualify similarly. | *These are 2026 estimates based on standard FPL multipliers; actual program may use 400% FPL or less. Provide tax returns, pay stubs for verification. No assets test usually.*[1] ## Insurance Requirements - **Commercial Insurance**: If covered but with high copays (> $100/month), the program may cover gaps via copay cards. - **Medicare Part D**: Eligible if income <400% FPL and assets under limits; bridges Extra Help gaps. - **Medicaid/Uninsured**: Primary targets; free medication possible. - **Government Insurance**: May not qualify if fully covered. Discuss with your dialysis center—Kapruvia is often covered under medical benefit (J-code), not pharmacy. Prior authorization from insurer is standard.[3][4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get Prescribed**: Ask your nephrologist/dialysis MD to confirm moderate-to-severe pruritus (use WK-URS scale ≥4) and start prior auth with insurance. 2. **Check Eligibility**: Call CSL Vifor at 1-855-692-6724 or visit their patient support site (search 'CSL Vifor patient assistance'). 3. **Gather Documents**: Proof of income (W-2, 1040, pay stubs), prescription, insurance card/denial, ID, HD schedule. 4. **Apply**: Download form from website or request by phone/fax. MD completes clinical sections; patient signs financial. 5. **Submit**: Fax/email to program (details provided upon contact). Track via portal/phone. 6. **Approval**: Expect card/voucher for free/low-cost supply. Applications are free; no enrollment fee.[1] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 1-3 business days for urgent; 2-4 weeks standard. - **Delivery**: Shipped to doctor's office/dialysis center (not home). First dose often same week. - **Supply**: 3-12 months initially; auto-refills. Shipped refrigerated; clinic administers during HD.[4] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Copay Savings Cards**: For insured; up to $5,000-$10,000/year. - **State Programs**: Check Medicaid HD extras or 340B clinics. - **Manufacturer Samples**: Free trial doses from rep. - **Patient Foundations**: Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPARx.org), NeedyMeds.org, or CKD-specific like AKF. - **Appeal**: Resubmit with more docs; 70% approvals on appeal. - **Generic/Other**: No generics; alternatives like gabapentin (off-label, less effective).[1][3] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical/financial advice. Eligibility, terms change; contact CSL Vifor directly (1-855-692-6724 or website) for current details. Not affiliated with CSL Vifor. Consult your doctor before starting Kapruvia—side effects include dizziness, nausea, HD access issues. FPL based on 2026 guidelines; verify at ASPE.hhs.gov. (Word count: 950)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026