Kisunla

Indicated For

Alzheimer's disease

About This Medication

# Lilly Cares Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Kisunla (donanemab-azbt) at Low or No Cost Kisunla (donanemab-azbt) is an FDA-approved intravenous treatment for early Alzheimer's disease, specifically for adults with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's who have confirmed amyloid plaques in the brain. The **Lilly Cares Foundation** program by Eli Lilly and Company provides this medication at no cost to qualifying uninsured or underinsured patients meeting income and other criteria. ## About Kisunla and Why Assistance Matters **Kisunla** targets amyloid beta plaques in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Administered every four weeks via IV infusion in a healthcare setting, it slows cognitive and functional decline in early stages, as shown in clinical trials where it reduced decline on scales like the Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) by 0.70 points at 76 weeks compared to placebo[7][9]. Treatment typically lasts until amyloid clearance is confirmed via PET scan, often 4-7 infusions, but can extend based on physician judgment[5][6]. Without insurance coverage, Kisunla's high list price—often tens of thousands per dose—makes it inaccessible for many. The Lilly Cares Foundation bridges this gap, offering free medication to eligible patients, ensuring access to this disease-modifying therapy[1][2][4]. ## Who Qualifies? Eligibility focuses on financial need, residency, and medical criteria: - **Uninsured or underinsured**: Patients without prescription coverage or those with insurance that doesn't cover Kisunla fully[2][4]. - **U.S. residency**: Must live in the U.S. and provide proof. - **Prescription**: Valid prescription from a licensed provider for FDA-approved use (early Alzheimer's)[5][6][9]. - **Income limits**: Typically up to **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, sometimes extending to 500% based on circumstances[provided data]. No specific household size thresholds listed, but calculated per household. **Income Eligibility Breakdown** Use the table below to check if your household income qualifies (2026 FPL estimates; confirm current via program): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 400% FPL (Typical Max) | |----------------|----------|------------------------| | 1 person | $15,060 | **$60,240** | | 2 people | $20,440 | **$81,760** | | 3 people | $25,820 | **$103,280** | | 4 people | $31,200 | **$124,800** | | +1 person | +$5,380 | +**$21,520** | *Notes*: Annual income before taxes. Assets may be reviewed. Call (800) 545-6962 for exact 2026 figures and edge cases[2]. ## Insurance Requirements This program targets **uninsured** (no coverage) or **underinsured** patients (high copays/denials despite insurance). Medicare Part D or commercial plans may cover Kisunla with prior authorization, but frequent denials occur due to strict criteria like mild-stage confirmation via MMSE ≥20 or specialist prescription[5][6][7]. If insured but costs exceed affordability, explore copay cards via LillyDirect (800-545-5979) first; Lilly Cares is for those falling through gaps[1][3][9]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get Prescribed**: Discuss Kisunla with a neurologist or Alzheimer's specialist. Confirm amyloid via PET scan or blood test[5][6][9]. 2. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s for all household). - Proof of residency (utility bill, lease). - Prescription (current, signed). - Proof of insurance status (denial letter or benefits summary)[provided data]. 3. **Contact Lilly Cares**: Call **(800) 545-6962** (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-6 PM ET) or visit lillycares.com. Multiple methods: phone, mail, or download forms[2]. 4. **Submit Application**: Physician completes sections; patient signs consent. Mail or fax as instructed. 5. **Await Approval**: Decisions vary; track via phone. 6. **Receive Medication**: Shipped to your home or doctor's office[provided data]. ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time isn't fixed but expect 2-4 weeks post-submission, depending on completeness. Once approved, medication ships directly—free infusions occur at clinics (billing separate). **Reauthorization** is required periodically, as eligibility is reassessed (e.g., annually or per treatment course)[provided data][7]. Track infusions; treatment stops post-amyloid clearance. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Provide additional docs or updated income. - **Copay Programs**: Lilly Kisunla Copay Card (up to $32,500/year savings; 800-545-5979)[3][9]. - **State Programs**: Check Medicaid waivers for Alzheimer's. - **Other Charities**: NeedyMeds, PAN Foundation (search Kisunla). - **Clinical Trials**: Alz.org for studies. - **Biosimilars**: None available[provided data]. Reapply if circumstances change (e.g., job loss). ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical/financial advice. Eligibility, FPL, and policies change; **always verify with Lilly Cares at (800) 545-6962 or lillycares.com**. Consult your doctor for treatment suitability. Lilly Cares doesn't cover infusions, travel, or non-FDA uses. Program independent of Lilly marketing[1][2]. (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026