Mekinist

Indicated For

melanoma, NSCLC, 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 targeted therapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, such as melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and anaplastic thyroid cancer, often in combination with other drugs like Tafinlar (dabrafenib). The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** helps eligible patients in the US get **Mekinist** for free if they meet income, insurance, and residency criteria[1][2][3]. This guide explains everything you need to know in simple terms. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The NPAF is designed for patients struggling to afford Novartis medications like Mekinist. To qualify, you must: - Live in the **United States or a U.S. territory**. - Have a **valid prescription** for Mekinist from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider. - Be treated on an **outpatient basis** (not in a hospital inpatient setting). - Meet **income guidelines** (specific thresholds vary by medication and household size; check www.PAP.Novartis.com for Mekinist details). - Have **limited or no prescription insurance coverage**, be uninsured, or be underinsured without ability to pay for the medication[1][2][3][7]. **Important notes**: - Patients with government insurance (like Medicare or Medicaid) may qualify if they can't afford copays or meet other criteria. - Those with private insurance might qualify if they lack coverage for Mekinist or have high out-of-pocket costs, but you must submit insurance details and any prior authorization (PA) denials[1][2]. - NPAF does **not** cover patients in alternative funding programs that adjust coverage based on PAP enrollment[1]. ## About Mekinist (trametinib) **Mekinist** is an oral tablet that blocks a protein called MEK, which cancer cells use to grow. It's FDA-approved for: - **BRAF-mutant melanoma** (alone or with Tafinlar). - **BRAF-mutant NSCLC** (with Tafinlar). - **BRAF-mutant solid tumors** in pediatric patients. - **Anaplastic thyroid cancer** (with Tafinlar). Common side effects include rash, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, and fever. Serious risks involve heart issues, eye problems, lung inflammation, and skin infections—always follow your doctor's instructions. Without insurance or assistance, Mekinist can cost over $20,000 per month, making programs like NPAF essential for many[3]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **household income** (as reported on your tax return) compared to **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** guidelines, which vary by medication. Specific Mekinist thresholds aren't listed here but are available at www.PAP.Novartis.com—typically up to 400-500% FPL depending on the drug[2][3]. You **must** provide proof of income: the **first 2 pages of your most recent 1040 tax return**. If you don't file taxes, contact NPAF at (800) 277-2254[1][6]. Here's a general example table of FPL-based thresholds (check PAP site for exact Mekinist limits; 2026 FPL guidelines apply): | Household Size | 400% FPL Example (Annual Income) | Notes | |---------------|---------------------------------|-------| | 1 person | ~$60,000 | Varies by drug[2] | | 2 people | ~$81,000 | Household from tax return[1] | | 3 people | ~$102,000 | Include all dependents | | 4 people | ~$123,000 | Proof required[6] | **Pro tip**: Use the PAP eligibility tool online first to confirm before applying[3]. ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients**: Fully eligible if other criteria met. - **Underinsured**: Submit front/back copies of **all insurance cards** (primary, secondary, Rx). Include PA or appeal denials if insurance won't cover Mekinist[1][2]. - **Medicare/Medicaid**: May qualify if you can't afford costs; NPAF helps with copays for eligible patients. - **No coverage for certain programs**: Excludes those in funding programs that restrict based on PAP use[1][7]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying takes teamwork between you and your doctor. It's free, and medication is **shipped directly to your home** if approved[3]. 1. **Check eligibility**: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com, enter Mekinist, household size, and income for instant check[2][3]. 2. **Download/print application**: Get the form from the PAP site or call (800) 277-2254 / (800) 282-7630[1][3][6]. 3. **Gather documents**: - **Completed patient section** (personal info, income, insurance, signature). - **Proof of income** (first 2 pages of 1040 tax return). - **Proof of residency** (e.g., utility bill, not always specified but recommended). - **Prescription** for Mekinist. - **Healthcare provider section** (doctor completes, signs, includes Rx and authorization)[1][4][6]. 4. **Doctor's role**: Discuss with your oncologist; they fill out their section, sign, and may attach PA denial[2][4]. 5. **Submit**: - **Fax**: 1-855-817-2711 (both patient and HCP sections). - **Mail**: NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 or PO Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029[1][2][6]. - **Phone support**: (800) 277-2254, Mon-Fri 9am-6pm EST[4]. **Warning**: Incomplete apps cause delays or denials—double-check everything![1][2]. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Up to **4 weeks** from receipt; you'll get a letter or text (if opted in) with status or next steps[3]. - **Delivery**: Free shipping to your home; supply duration varies (often 1-3 months supply initially)[3]. - **Reauthorization**: **Required annually** or as specified—resubmit updated info[8]. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact NPAF if missing info; resubmit corrected app[3][5]. - **Other programs**: Check NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or manufacturer copay cards (if insured). Simplefill or state programs may help[10]. - **Generic/biosimilars**: None currently for Mekinist[program data]. - **Call for help**: (800) 277-2254 for guidance[6]. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available NPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility rules can change—always verify at www.PAP.Novartis.com or by phone. NPAF decisions are final. Consult your doctor for medical advice; this isn't a substitute. Novartis doesn't guarantee approval. Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026