Plaquenil

Indicated For

Systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, malaria

About This Medication

# Sanofi Patient Connection Patient Guide: How to Get Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) at Low or No Cost Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) is a prescription medication commonly used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and malaria prevention. The **Sanofi Patient Connection** program helps eligible patients in the U.S. get Plaquenil at no cost if they meet income and insurance criteria.[1][2] ## About Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) **Plaquenil** is the brand name for hydroxychloroquine sulfate, an antimalarial drug also approved for managing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It works by modulating the immune system to reduce inflammation, pain, and joint damage. Typical doses range from 200-400 mg daily, but your doctor will tailor it to your needs. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and skin rash; rare but serious risks include retinopathy (eye damage), so regular eye exams are essential. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping this medication.[1][2] This guide explains the Sanofi Patient Connection program, designed for uninsured or underinsured patients struggling with medication costs. If approved, you'll receive free Plaquenil shipped directly to your home for up to 12 months.[3][4] ## Who Qualifies for Sanofi Patient Connection? To qualify, you must meet these key requirements: - Be a resident of the U.S. or U.S. Territories. - Be under the care of a licensed U.S. healthcare provider. - Have a household income at or below **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. - Lack insurance coverage for Plaquenil or have no access to it through your insurance (e.g., not covered by commercial insurance, Medicare Part D, or Medicaid).[1][2][3][5] **Special notes**: - If potentially eligible for Medicaid, provide denial documentation. - Medicare Part B or D patients may qualify if the drug isn't covered and income criteria are met. - The program targets 'functionally uninsured' patients—those whose insurance doesn't cover the specific medication.[3][7][8] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on annual household income ≤**400% FPL**. Use the table below to check your household size (2026 FPL guidelines; verify current levels at ASPE.hhs.gov). Exact thresholds depend on location and year, but here's a general guide based on program rules.[1][2] | Household Size | 100% FPL (approx.) | **400% FPL Max Income (approx.)** | |---------------|---------------------|-----------------------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | **$60,240** | | 2 | $20,440 | **$81,760** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$103,280** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$124,800** | | +1 person | +$5,380 | **+$21,520** | *Approximations for 2026 continental U.S.; Alaska/Hawaii higher. Include all household income sources. Program verifies via tax returns, pay stubs, etc.[1] ## Insurance Requirements The program is for patients with **no insurance coverage** for Plaquenil or **no access** through existing insurance: - **Uninsured**: Fully eligible if income-qualified. - **Commercial insurance**: Eligible if Plaquenil isn't covered. - **Medicaid**: Need denial letter if applicable. - **Medicare Part B/D**: Eligible if not covered; Part D patients may need to show high out-of-pocket costs or no generic coverage. Medicare Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) recipients may have limits.[3][5][7][8][9] Insurance details must be provided on the application; the program isn't for fully covered patients.[2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Discuss with your doctor**: Confirm Plaquenil prescription and get their help completing the form. 2. **Download the application**: Visit sanofipatientconnection.com, select your state, and download the Sanofi Patient Connection Application.[2][8] 3. **Complete patient section** (page 2): Provide personal info, income details, insurance status, sign HIPAA consent and income verification. 4. **Doctor completes section** (page 3): Dosage, diagnosis (e.g., ICD code), state license, insurance info. 5. **Gather documents**: Proof of income (e.g., 2025 tax return, W-2s, pay stubs); Medicaid denial if needed. No full list specified, but attach as required.[8][9] 6. **Submit**: Fax to 1-888-847-1797 or mail to Sanofi Patient Connection, PO Box 222138, Charlotte, NC 28222-2138. Online portal at www.visitspconline.com possible.[4][8] Applications must be complete; incomplete ones delay processing.[9] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time isn't specified, but expect review upon receipt. If approved, you and your doctor get notification letters. Medication is **shipped free to your home** for up to 12 months. Medicare Part D patients transition back to their plan yearly. Reapply annually if needed.[3][4][8] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact program for reasons and resubmit with more docs. - **Other assistance**: State programs, 340B clinics, or generic copay cards. - **Manufacturer savings**: Check Sanofi coupons if commercially insured. - **Government aid**: Apply for Medicaid/Medicare Extra Help. - **No biosimilars** for Plaquenil (small molecule).[3] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of 2026. Eligibility, rules, and FPL change; always verify at sanofipatientconnection.com or call the program. Not medical/financial advice—consult your doctor and advisor. Sanofi may update terms; approval not guaranteed.[1][2]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026