Marinol

Indicated For

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), appetite stimulant in HIV/AIDS

About This Medication

# AbbVie Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Marinol (Dronabinol) at Low or No Cost Marinol (dronabinol) is a prescription medication used to treat nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy in cancer patients and to stimulate appetite in people with AIDS-related weight loss. While AbbVie, the manufacturer, does not offer a dedicated patient assistance program (PAP) specifically for Marinol, eligible patients can access it for **free or very low cost** through third-party services like Prescription Hope or general resources like myAbbVie Assist and RxHope. This guide explains your options step-by-step in simple terms.[1][3][6][7] ## About Marinol (Dronabinol) **Marinol** contains dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC (the active ingredient in cannabis). It comes as oral capsules (2.5 mg, 5 mg, or 10 mg) taken 1-3 times daily, depending on your doctor's instructions. It's FDA-approved for: - **Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)** when other anti-nausea drugs fail. - **Anorexia** (loss of appetite) with weight loss in AIDS patients.[6][9] Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in mood or thinking. It's a **Schedule III controlled substance**, so your doctor must prescribe it, and pharmacies handle it carefully. Without assistance, a 30-day supply of brand Marinol costs **$300-$800**, and even generic dronabinol averages **$380**. Assistance programs make it affordable or free.[6] **Important:** Always follow your doctor's advice. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you. ## Who Qualifies? Since there's no direct AbbVie PAP for Marinol, focus on these reliable options: 1. **Prescription Hope** (top recommendation): Helps uninsured or underinsured patients get brand-name Marinol for a flat **$60-$70/month** fee (per medication). They handle enrollment in manufacturer programs.[1][6][10] 2. **RxHope/AbbVie Programs**: Uninsured US residents may qualify if income meets undisclosed guidelines. Medicare Part D patients denied coverage can apply.[3][7] 3. **Medicare Extra Help** or state programs for seniors/low-income.[2][8] **Key eligibility:** US resident, valid prescription, often no/low income insurance required. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Programs use flexible guidelines based on household income. Here's a table for Prescription Hope (most transparent and accessible for Marinol).[1] | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (Approx.) | Notes | |---------------|-------------------------------|-------| | **Individual** | Up to **$50,000** | Entry-level guideline; higher possible with circumstances. | | **Couple/Household of 2** | Up to **$70,000** | Combined income. | | **Family of 3+** | Up to **$200,000** | Scales with family size; call to confirm. | Other programs (e.g., RxHope) have **undisclosed income limits** but prioritize low-income/uninsured. Medicare Extra Help: Income <135% Federal Poverty Level (FPL), assets < $17,550 individual/$35,000 couple (2025 figures).[2][3][8] Always verify current limits, as they adjust yearly. ## Insurance Requirements - **Prescription Hope**: Works **with or without insurance**. No prescription coverage? Ideal. Has insurance? They coordinate.[1] - **RxHope/AbbVie**: **No prescription insurance** required; Medicare Part D denial helps eligibility.[3] - **Medicare Part D**: Covered, but high costs possible pre-$2,000 out-of-pocket cap (2025). Use **Extra Help** for low copays/no deductible.[2][8] **Pro tip:** If insured, ask your plan about prior authorization (common for Marinol) or step therapy (try ondansetron first).[6] ## Step-by-Step Application Process ### Option 1: Prescription Hope (Easiest, $60-70/month) 1. Visit prescriptionhope.com or call to create a free account. 2. Fill out online application: Provide income, prescription details, doctor's info. 3. Get **pre-qualified instantly**; they apply to PAPs on your behalf. 4. Pay **$60/month** flat fee; receive med by mail (they manage refills).[1][6] ### Option 2: RxHope Direct 1. Go to rxhope.com or call **800-256-8918**. 2. Doctor/patient submits app (online available). 3. Include proof of no insurance, income docs, residency. 4. If approved, med shipped free.[3] ### Option 3: Medicare Extra Help 1. Apply via SSA.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. 2. Provide income/assets proof. 3. If approved, auto-applies to Part D for savings.[2][8] **Required Documents (General):** Prescription, proof of income (tax return/W-2), ID, proof of no insurance (if applicable), doctor's statement.[3] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Prescription Hope**: Pre-approval same day; full access in **1-2 weeks**. Med shipped to your home.[1] - **RxHope**: Processing **2-4 weeks**; annual reapplication. Free shipping.[3] - **Medicare Extra Help**: **4-6 weeks** approval. Refills: Prescription Hope auto-manages; RxHope requires doctor/patient contact yearly with financials.[1][3] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Generic Dronabinol**: Cheaper (**$380 retail**, less with GoodRx/Optum Perks up to 80% off). Ask pharmacist to substitute (avoid 'DAW').[6][9] - **State ADAPs** (for AIDS patients): Covers dronabinol if income <300-500% FPL.[10] - **NeedyMeds/RxAssist**: Find more PAPs/discounts.[5][10] - **GoodRx Coupons**: Instant pharmacy savings.[2] - **Syndros** (similar oral solution): Discontinued, but check generics.[4] No biosimilars available. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical/financial advice. Program details change; contact providers directly for latest info. Eligibility not guaranteed. Consult your doctor before starting Marinol. Costs as of 2025; verify current pricing. AbbVie/Prescription Hope not affiliated with this guide.[1][3][6]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026