Otezla

Indicated For

Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Behçet's Disease, Pediatric Plaque Psoriasis

About This Medication

# Amgen Safety Net Foundation: Otezla Patient Guide: How to Get Otezla at Low or No Cost Otezla (apremilast) is a prescription medication used to treat conditions like plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Behçet's disease by reducing inflammation. The **Amgen Safety Net Foundation for Otezla** provides **free medication** to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients who demonstrate financial need and meet specific criteria.[1] ## About Otezla **Otezla** is an oral tablet taken twice daily that helps manage moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults and children 12+, psoriatic arthritis in adults, and oral ulcers from Behçet's disease in adults. Unlike injectable biologics, it's a pill that targets phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) to calm overactive immune responses causing symptoms like scaly skin patches, joint pain, or mouth sores. Always take as prescribed by your doctor, starting with a titration pack to minimize side effects like diarrhea, nausea, or headache, which often improve over time.[1] ## Who Qualifies? This program is for **US residents (including Puerto Rico)** facing financial hardship with Otezla costs. It's needs-based and open to: - **Uninsured patients** with no prescription coverage. - **Underinsured patients**, including those on **Medicare Part D** with limited coverage or high out-of-pocket costs. Key exclusions and requirements: - Not eligible if you qualify for Medicaid or Medicare's Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy). - Must exhaust other financial support options. - Your doctor must satisfy payer guidelines and prior authorization (PA) if applicable. - Demonstrate inability to afford the medicine.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown The program is **needs-based** but specific income thresholds (like Federal Poverty Level percentages) are not publicly detailed—eligibility hinges on proving financial need through household income, expenses, and support documentation. Patients with **$0 income** must explain support sources in writing.[2] | Household Size | Estimated Eligibility Notes | Required Proof | |---------------|----------------------------|---------------| | Individual | Financial need shown via income docs | Pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements[1][2] | | Couple | Same; include spouse income | Proof of all household support | | Family of 3 | Household-based assessment | Explanation if $0 income[2] | | Family of 4+ | Cumulative need evaluation | Bills/debts if applicable | **Notes**: No fixed FPL % listed; approval is case-by-case. Contact the program for personalized assessment.[1] ## Insurance Requirements - **No insurance required**, but details matter: - **Uninsured**: Eligible if no Otezla coverage.[2] - **Medicare Part D**: Eligible if covered but unaffordable **AND** not on Extra Help/Medicaid. Complete PA first.[1] - **Commercial insurance**: Program supports underinsured with limited coverage; co-pay programs exist separately for commercially insured (not this free med program).[3][4] - Notify program immediately if insurance changes, as it may end eligibility.[1][2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Talk to your doctor**: Confirm Otezla prescription. They complete the **Product Prescription Form** (download at amgensafetynetfoundation.com).[1] 2. **Complete Patient Application**: Fill out, sign, and gather financial docs (income proof, tax returns, bills). If $0 income, include support letter.[2] 3. **Submit together**: Doctor faxes **completed application + prescription** to **833-959-1409**.[1] Alternative fax: **1-844-269-3053**; mail to P.O. Box 503227, San Diego, CA 92150.[2] 4. **Await decision**: Program reviews; you'll be notified. Incomplete apps delay processing.[1] 5. **Consent for shipment**: If approved, confirm shipping details.[1] **Phone support**: Call **800-932-3060** (Mon-Fri, 8am-8pm ET) for help.[1] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Varies; complete apps processed promptly, but missing docs delay. Expect notification after review.[1] - **Enrollment duration**: Up to **12 months**.[1][2] - **Delivery**: Free meds shipped **directly to your home** after consent. No pharmacy pickup needed.[1] - **Refills**: Automatic within enrollment; reapply after 12 months with new application.[1] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Provide additional docs proving need.[1] - **Otezla Co-Pay Program**: For **commercially insured** only—reduces copays to **$0** (max benefit applies). Enroll at AmgenSupportPlus.com or call **1-844-4OTEZLA** (1-844-468-3952), Mon-Fri 8am-8pm ET.[3][4][5] - **Amgen SupportPlus**: General resources, nurse support, specialty pharmacy help.[6] - **Other options**: State programs, patient access foundations, or generic alternatives (none for Otezla currently). Doctor may explore biosimilars (none listed).[1] ## Disclaimer This guide summarizes publicly available info as of 2026 and is **not official advice**. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change—verify with Amgen Safety Net Foundation at 800-932-3060 or your healthcare provider. Program not guaranteed; not for federally reimbursed patients. See full terms at amgensafetynetfoundation.com. Consult your doctor before starting/stopping Otezla. Amgen reserves rights to modify/terminate.[1][2]

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026