Mekinist

Indicated For

melanoma, anaplastic thyroid cancer

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Mekinist (trametinib) at Low or No Cost Mekinist (trametinib) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of cancer, such as melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and thyroid cancer, often in combination with other drugs like Tafinlar (dabrafenib). The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** offers **Mekinist at no cost** to eligible uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients who meet income guidelines and other criteria.[1][2][4] ## About Mekinist (trametinib) **Mekinist** is a targeted therapy that blocks a protein called MEK, which can fuel cancer cell growth. It's approved for adults and children (ages 6 and older for some uses) with **BRAF V600E or V600K mutation-positive** cancers. Common side effects include rash, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, and fever—your doctor will monitor these closely. Always take it exactly as prescribed, usually once daily on an empty stomach.[1][6] This guide explains how the NPAF program works for Mekinist, helping patients facing high costs access life-saving treatment without financial strain. ## Who Qualifies for NPAF? To qualify, you must:[1][2][4][5] - Reside in the **United States or a U.S. Territory**. - Be treated by a **licensed U.S. healthcare provider (HCP)** on an **outpatient basis**. - Have **limited or no prescription insurance coverage** (uninsured, government insurance like Medicare without full coverage, or unable to afford out-of-pocket costs). - **Meet income guidelines** (typically **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** or less; higher in Alaska/Hawaii—check exact limits for Mekinist at pap.novartis.com).[1][4] - Have a **valid prescription** for Mekinist. **NPAF does not cover** patients with private insurance that pays for the medication, alternative funding programs, or those treated inpatient.[5] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds vary by medication, household size, and location. NPAF generally uses **400% FPL**, but confirm on pap.novartis.com as limits differ (e.g., higher for Alaska/Hawaii).[1][4] Here's a general table based on 2026 FPL estimates (always verify current guidelines): | Household Size | 48 States Max Annual Income | Alaska Max Annual Income | Hawaii Max Annual Income | |---------------|-----------------------------|--------------------------|--------------------------| | 1 | ~$60,000 | ~$75,000 | ~$69,000 | | 2 | ~$81,000 | ~$101,000 | ~$93,000 | | 3 | ~$102,000 | ~$127,000 | ~$117,000 | | 4 | ~$123,000 | ~$154,000 | ~$141,000 | *Add ~$21,000 per additional person in 48 states.* Income includes wages, disability, unemployment, alimony, etc. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs.[2][3][5] **Notes:** Thresholds not publicly detailed per drug; use the online eligibility checker.[1] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured or limited coverage:** Ideal candidates—no private prescription insurance paying for Mekinist.[1][2][4] - **Medicare patients:** Eligible if you lack Part D coverage or can't afford copays; submit **front/back of Medicare card** and proof of Extra Help denial if applicable.[1][4] - **Government insurance:** May qualify if it doesn't fully cover costs.[5] - **Private insurance:** Generally ineligible unless you prove inability to afford (e.g., prior authorization denial).[4] Include **front/back copies of ALL insurance cards** (primary, secondary, Rx). If insured, provide **prior authorization (PA) denial** or appeal outcomes.[2][4][5] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility Online:** Visit **pap.novartis.com**, enter your info for Mekinist to see if you qualify instantly.[1][4] 2. **Download/Complete Application:** Get the form from pap.novartis.com. Fill **Patient Section** (personal, income, insurance details).[2][4] 3. **Gather Documents:** - **Proof of income:** Most recent **federal tax return (first 2 pages)**, OR 3 months' **pay stubs/bank statements/unemployment docs**.[2][3][5] - **Insurance cards** (front/back).[2][4] - **Prescription** for Mekinist (original or faxed separately by HCP).[3][4] - **PA denial** if applicable.[2][4] 4. **HCP Completes Their Section:** Doctor fills prescriber page, signs Rx and authorization, faxes separately if needed.[2][4] 5. **Submit:** - **Fax:** 1-855-817-2711 (both patient/HCP sections).[2][4][9] - **Mail:** Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation, P.O. Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029 (or updated PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216).[2][5][9] 6. **Phone Support:** Call **1-800-277-2254** (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm EST) for questions.[2] **Tip:** Double-check completeness—missing info causes delays/denials.[4] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing:** Up to **4 weeks** for a decision letter (text if opted in).[1] - **If Approved:** Medication shipped free to your doctor's office or pharmacy for pickup. Supply duration varies (often 1-3 months).[1][7] - **Updates:** Call 1-800-277-2254 if no response.[2] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Reapply** with complete docs or updated income.[1] - **Novartis Oncology Support:** Call 1-877-452-7471 for copay assistance if insured.[6] - **Other PAPs:** Simplefill (877-386-0206) or RxHope for matching.[8] - **State programs, NeedyMeds, or PAN Foundation** for cancer drugs. - **Medicare Extra Help** or state pharmaceutical aid. - **Patient Access Network (PAN)** or CancerCare for grants.[7] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available NPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility, guidelines, and processes can change—**always verify at pap.novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254**. NPAF reserves the right to modify/discontinue the program. Not affiliated with Novartis; consult your doctor for medical advice. Do not send originals; copies only. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026