Lotrel

Indicated For

Hypertension, high blood pressure

About This Medication

# Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF) Patient Guide: How to Get Lotrel (amlodipine/benazepril) at Low or No Cost Lotrel (amlodipine/benazepril) is a prescription medication combining two drugs to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Amlodipine relaxes blood vessels as a calcium channel blocker, while benazepril is an ACE inhibitor that reduces blood vessel constriction. Together, they lower blood pressure to reduce risks like heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems. This guide explains the **Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF)** program, which may provide Lotrel free to eligible patients facing financial hardship.[1][2] ## Who Qualifies for BMSPAF? The BMSPAF helps **uninsured or underinsured U.S. residents 18+** who cannot afford their Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) medications, including Lotrel. Key requirements include: - Living in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. - Age 18 or older. - Household income below program limits (specific Federal Poverty Level (FPL) thresholds not publicly detailed; contact program for current guidelines).[3][6] - No or limited insurance coverage for the medication. - Not eligible for Medicaid (proof of denial may be needed).[7] **Medicare patients**: If enrolled in Medicare Part D, you qualify if you've spent at least **3% of your yearly household income** on out-of-pocket prescription costs this year.[3] The program provides free medication for up to **one year**, with **90-day supplies** shipped to your doctor's office.[5][6] It's needs-based, with periodic financial audits possible.[5] ## About Lotrel (amlodipine/benazepril) **Lotrel** treats hypertension in patients not controlled by one drug alone. Common doses: 2.5/10 mg, 5/20 mg, or 10/40 mg capsules, taken once daily. It starts working within 1-2 weeks, with full effects in 1-2 months. **Benefits**: Lowers blood pressure effectively, reducing cardiovascular risks. **Common side effects**: Cough, dizziness, swelling in ankles, headache, fatigue. Rare but serious: Angioedema (swelling), kidney issues, high potassium. **Warnings**: Not for pregnancy (can harm fetus); inform your doctor of kidney/liver issues, diabetes, or salt-restricted diets. Always follow your doctor's advice. Take as prescribed; do not stop suddenly without guidance, as blood pressure may rise. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown BMSPAF uses household income limits, but exact FPL percentages or dollar amounts are **not specified in available sources**. Income must be below the program's thresholds, verified via application.[3] Here's a general table based on typical patient assistance structures (confirm with BMSPAF for Lotrel-specific 2026 limits): | Household Size | Estimated Max Annual Income (300% FPL example)* | |----------------|------------------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$45,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$61,000 | | 3 | ~$77,000 | | 4 | ~$93,000 | *Hypothetical based on 2026 FPL estimates; actual limits vary. Include all household income sources. Medicare Part D patients need 3% OOP spend proof.[3][6] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Ideal candidates—no prescription coverage needed.[2][4] - **Underinsured**: Accepted if you can't afford copays/deductibles. Medicare Part D OK with 3% income OOP threshold.[3] - **Medicare/Medicaid**: Medicare patients qualify under OOP rules; Medicaid-eligible must show denial letter.[3][7] - **Private insurance/VA/Military**: May qualify if coverage excludes Lotrel or costs are unaffordable.[3][4] **Note**: Program doesn't cover patients whose insurance hides eligibility or requires prior approval conflicts.[4] BMS Access Support can help check coverage first.[2][9] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check eligibility**: Call **1-800-736-0003** (Mon-Fri, 8am-8pm ET) or visit bmspaf.org. Confirm Lotrel availability.[1][3] 2. **Download form**: Get the BMSPAF application (PDF) from bmspaf.org or sites like RxHope.[3][5][8] 3. **Complete patient section**: Provide name, address, DOB, SSN (optional), household size/income, insurance details, current meds. Sign consent.[3][5] 4. **Doctor completes sections**: Provider verifies diagnosis, prescription (don't attach prescription), office info. Signs.[3][5] 5. **Gather docs**: Proof of income (tax returns/pay stubs), Medicaid denial (if applicable), OOP costs for Medicare.[3][5][7] 6. **Submit**: - **Mail**: Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation, PO Box 220769, Charlotte, NC 28222-0769 (or alternate P.O. Box 1058, Somerville, NJ 08876).[3][5][7] - **Fax**: 1-800-736-1611 (no multiples).[3][5] - Online options via pdfFiller or BMS sites possible.[8][9] 7. **Track status**: Note case #; expect mail notification.[3] **Free to apply**—no fees.[3][7] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time not specified; expect weeks for review. If approved, **90-day supply** ships to **doctor's office** (not home).[5][6] Initial approval up to 1 year; **reapply annually** (Medicare: every January).[6] Refills via reauthorization process. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Provide more docs if financial audit requested.[5] - **BMS Access Support**: Copay cards, prior auth help for insured patients.[2][4][9] - **Other PAPs**: NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or generic amlodipine/benazepril via Walmart/$4 lists. - **State programs**: Check Medicaid expansion or 340B clinics. - **Patient discount cards**: GoodRx for uninsured savings. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available data as of 2026. Program rules, availability (including for Lotrel), and limits **change without notice**—verify directly with BMSPAF at 1-800-736-0003 or bmspaf.org.[1][5] Not medical/financial advice; consult your doctor/pharmacist. Eligibility not guaranteed. BMS not liable for guide content.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026