Retrovir

Indicated For

HIV-1, perinatal transmission

About This Medication

# ViiV Healthcare Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Retrovir (zidovudine) at Low or No Cost This guide explains how the **ViiV Healthcare Patient Assistance Program (PAP)** can help you access **Retrovir (zidovudine)**, an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV infection, at no cost if you qualify. The program is managed by the GSK Patient Access Programs Foundation, an independent non-profit, and provides eligible patients with free prescriptions shipped directly to their home.[1][2][3] ## About Retrovir (Zidovudine) **Retrovir (zidovudine)**, also known as AZT, is an oral nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that helps manage HIV by slowing the virus's ability to replicate in the body. It's often used in combination with other HIV medications and has been a cornerstone of HIV treatment since the 1980s. Common forms include capsules, tablets, syrup, and intravenous solutions. Always take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and discuss any side effects like nausea, headache, or fatigue with your healthcare provider. This program covers eligible ViiV oral medications like Retrovir for uninsured or qualifying Medicare patients.[1][3][4][7] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? To qualify for free Retrovir through the ViiV Healthcare PAP, you must meet **all** these criteria: - Reside in one of the 50 U.S. states, District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico (applications for patients under 18 require parent/guardian signature).[1][7] - Be **uninsured** or have **Medicare Part A, B, D, or Medicare Advantage** (and meet other requirements).[1][3] - **Not enrolled** in AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), Medicaid, Puerto Rico Government Health Plan (Reform, Mi Salud), or other federal/state government-funded plans (except Medicare).[1] - **Not enrolled** in an Alternate Funding Program.[1] - Meet **financial income eligibility** (typically ≤500% of the Federal Poverty Level, or FPL).[3] The program does **not** constitute health insurance and is subject to change.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are based on **500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** for similar ViiV medications. Exact household size thresholds aren't publicly listed here but align with federal guidelines—call (844) 588-3288 for your specific calculation. Patients exceeding limits may qualify if high medical expenses reduce effective income.[3][7] Here's a general table based on 2026 FPL estimates (confirm current levels via program): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (approx. 500% FPL) | |----------------|-------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $73,000 | | 2 (Couple) | $98,000 | | 3 | $123,000 | | 4 | $148,000 | | +1 per member | +$25,000 | **Notes**: Proof of income required (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs). Contact program for exact 2026 figures and medical expense deductions.[3][7] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients**: Fully eligible if other criteria met.[1][5] - **Medicare patients**: Eligible for Part A, B, D, or Medicare Advantage **if** you've spent $600+ on drugs this year (Part D) and meet income rules. Non-Part D Medicare patients can get same-day enrollment via advocate.[1][3] - **Ineligible if**: Enrolled in ADAP, Medicaid, or government plans beyond Medicare.[1] Savings cards or copay programs exist for insured patients but **not** for Medicare/government programs—PAP is for no-cost access.[2][4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applications are **phone-based** initially, with forms faxed/mailed. No online URL.[3] 1. **Call the program**: Dial **(844) 588-3288** (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-8 PM ET; language options available). Ask for Retrovir application.[1][2][3] 2. **Gather documents**: - **Proof of residency** (e.g., utility bill).[Provided] - **Proof of income** (tax return, W-2, pay stubs).[3][7] - **Prescription** from your doctor for Retrovir.[3] 3. **Doctor completes/signs**: Provider signs enrollment form (downloadable in English/Spanish if needed).[7] 4. **Submit**: Fax (844) 208-7676 or mail per instructions. Advocate can help for urgent needs.[3] 5. **Wait for approval**: Program reviews eligibility.[1] For patients under 18, parent/guardian signs.[1] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing time**: Not specified; Medicare Part D requires mail/fax approval before shipping—expect 1-2 weeks. Urgent non-Part D cases may ship same-day via phone.[3] - **Supply**: Up to **90-day supply** per shipment, shipped free to your **home**.[3] - **Refills**: For oral meds like Retrovir, call **1-888-434-8111** (reauthorization required).[1][7] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **ViiVConnect Savings Programs**: Copay cards for commercial insurance (not Medicare).[2][4] - **ADAP**: State AIDS Drug Assistance if eligible.[1] - **RxHope/RxAssist**: Search other PAPs.[3][6] - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or state programs for HIV meds. - **Contact ViiVConnect coordinator** for coverage help.[5] - No biosimilars listed for Retrovir. ## Reauthorization **Yes, required**. Refill via phone; annual renewal likely needed.[Provided][1] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on available program details as of 2026. **Eligibility, terms, and income limits can change**—always verify by calling (844) 588-3288. This is **not health insurance** or medical advice. Consult your doctor for treatment. Program operated by independent foundation.[1][2] (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: January 31, 2026