RESTASIS

Indicated For

Chronic dry eye disease

About This Medication

# myAbbVie Assist Patient Guide: How to Get RESTASIS (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) at Low or No Cost RESTASIS (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05% is a prescription eye drop used to increase tear production in patients with **chronic dry eye disease** (also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca). The **myAbbVie Assist** program from AbbVie helps eligible patients get RESTASIS for **free** if they have limited or no insurance and meet income criteria—no co-pays or shipping fees apply[1][10]. ## About RESTASIS RESTASIS comes as single-use vials or MultiDose® bottles and is applied twice daily (one drop in each eye). It's an **immunomodulator** that reduces inflammation on the eye's surface to help your eyes produce more natural tears. **Important safety note**: Do not use if you're allergic to cyclosporine or any ingredients. Common side effects include burning eyes (17%), as well as redness, itching, or blurred vision. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report side effects to your healthcare provider or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. RESTASIS is not a cure but manages symptoms long-term[4]. ## Who Qualifies for myAbbVie Assist? This program is for **U.S. residents** under the care of a licensed healthcare professional with a valid RESTASIS prescription. You must have **little or no health insurance** and **limited economic means**. Specific income limits aren't publicly listed but are based on household income, out-of-pocket costs, and insurance status. The program electronically verifies income (with your consent under the Fair Credit Reporting Act); if needed, submit tax returns or similar proof[2][6]. Qualifying patients get RESTASIS **free for up to one year**, with reauthorization required annually[3][7]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Exact Federal Poverty Level (FPL) thresholds aren't disclosed, but eligibility considers your full financial picture. Medicare patients below 150% FPL must first apply for **Extra Help** (Low-Income Subsidy) and include denial proof[3][7]. | Household Size | Estimated Eligibility Notes | Required Proof | |---------------|----------------------------|---------------| | **Individual** | Limited income; exact FPL not specified | Tax return or electronic verification if needed[2] | | **Couple** | Household income reviewed holistically | Same as above | | **Family of 3** | Includes out-of-pocket medical expenses | Expense form optional[2] | | **Family of 4+** | Adjusted for family size | Same as above | **Notes**: No set FPL percentage listed; program assesses case-by-case. Notify if finances change[3][6]. ## Insurance Requirements - **Eligible**: Uninsured or underinsured patients whose plans don't fully cover RESTASIS. - **Ineligible**: Enrolled in **Medicare, Medicaid, or other federal/state programs** (e.g., TRICARE, VA) unless you have **Extra Help denial** for Medicare Part D patients[3][7]. Also ineligible if in private indemnity/HMO plans that reimburse 100% of costs[3]. - Include front/back copies of **all insurance cards** if applicable[3]. You cannot seek reimbursement for program-provided medicine[3]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying is **free** and can be done **online, mail, or fax**. Your doctor submits separate info[1][2]. 1. **Prepare Documents**: Gather completed enrollment form, proof of doctor's care/valid prescription, financial docs (e.g., tax return), **HIPAA authorization**, insurance cards, and Extra Help denial (if Medicare)[3]. Optional: Expense form for medical costs[2]. 2. **Online (Preferred)**: - Visit AbbVie Patient Access Support site[2]. - Create account, enter income/insurance info. - Upload docs, review privacy/terms, submit. - Program contacts your doctor for prescription. - Sign up for text/email updates. 3. **Mail/Fax (If No Electronic Docs or for Minors/Representatives)**: - Download eye care application PDF[3]. - Read/sign terms, privacy, HIPAA (pages 1-3). - Complete enrollment (page 4), get patient/doctor signatures. - Mail to: AbbVie Patient Access Support, D-617927, AP5 NE 1 N. Waukegan Rd., North Chicago, IL 60064. - Or fax/phone: 1-800-222-6885 (general); RESTASIS line: 1-888-249-4918[2]. 4. **Doctor's Role**: They complete their section, provide prescription[2][3]. Expect notification for you and your doctor post-review[2]. ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time isn't specified, but approvals allow **refill scheduling online** based on prescription. Medicine is **shipped free directly to you** (or your address). Free for one year if approved; **reauthorize annually** by reapplying[1][2][10]. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact program via phone (1-888-249-4918) to discuss[2]. - **Extra Help**: Medicare patients—apply at SSA.gov; covers premiums/deductibles (up to $4.90 generics/$12.15 brands in 2025)[7]. - **Other AbbVie Support**: Check AbbVie Access for co-pay cards (commercial insurance only, not government plans)[4]. - **RxAssist or Healthline Resources**: Explore general PAP databases[7][8]. - **Prior Authorization Tools**: For insured patients[4]. No biosimilars listed for RESTASIS. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of latest updates. **Eligibility isn't guaranteed**; criteria can change without notice. Consult your doctor and the official myAbbVie Assist site or call 1-888-249-4918 for personalized advice. AbbVie may discontinue anytime. Do not rely solely on this—verify directly. Free medicine can't be resold/reimbursed[1][3]. (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 29, 2026