RUKOBIA

Indicated For

HIV-1 infection in multidrug-resistant, treatment-experienced adults

About This Medication

# ViiV Healthcare Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get RUKOBIA (fostemsavir) at Low or No Cost RUKOBIA (fostemsavir), an antiretroviral medication from ViiV Healthcare, helps treat HIV-1 in adults and children when other treatments fail or aren't suitable. The **ViiV Healthcare Patient Assistance Program (PAP)** provides this vital drug **at no cost** to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients facing financial hardship[1][4][5]. ## About RUKOBIA (fostemsavir) **RUKOBIA** is an oral HIV-1 integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) attachment inhibitor used in heavily treatment-experienced adults with multidrug-resistant HIV-1. It works by blocking the virus from entering and infecting CD4 cells, helping to reduce viral load and increase CD4 counts. It's typically taken as two 600 mg extended-release tablets twice daily with food. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache—always discuss with your doctor[5]. This program focuses on oral medications like RUKOBIA, ensuring access for those who qualify[5]. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The program is designed for patients struggling to afford their HIV medications. Key eligibility includes: - Residing in the **50 U.S. states, District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico**. - Being **uninsured** or **underinsured** (e.g., Medicare Part A, B, D, or Medicare Advantage patients meeting requirements). - Meeting **financial income criteria** (detailed below). - **Not enrolled** in AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), Medicaid, Puerto Rico Government Health Plan, or other federal/state-funded plans (except Medicare). - Having a valid prescription from your doctor. Patients under 18 need a parent or legal guardian to sign[1][5]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **household gross income** at or below specific thresholds, roughly **500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. If your income exceeds limits, you may still qualify by showing high medical expenses—contact the program for details[5][6]. Here's the breakdown for **48 states and DC** (thresholds may differ for Alaska/Hawaii; call to confirm)[5]: | Household Size | Maximum Annual Gross Income | |---------------|-----------------------------| | 1 | $78,250 | | 2 | $105,750 | | 3 | $133,250 | | 4 | $160,750 | | Each additional person | Add $27,500 | **Notes**: Income includes all household earnings before taxes. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs. Medicare Part D patients may need to show $600+ spent on drugs this year[6]. ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients**: Primary candidates—get RUKOBIA shipped free if eligible[1][4]. - **Medicare patients**: Eligible for Parts A, B, D, or Advantage if meeting income criteria and other rules (e.g., no ADAP). Medicare Part D enrollees apply via mail/fax first[1][6]. - **Underinsured**: Commercial insurance gaps may qualify via ViiVConnect, but PAP is for no-cost meds[2][3]. - **Exclusions**: No Medicaid, ADAP, or government plans (except Medicare)[1][5]. This program **does not constitute health insurance** and is subject to change[1][4]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying is straightforward—start by phone for fastest help. Here's how: 1. **Get a Prescription**: Ask your doctor for RUKOBIA. They'll complete part of the enrollment form[5][6]. 2. **Call the Program**: Dial **1-844-588-3288** (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-8 PM ET). Language assistance available. An advocate can enroll you same-day if urgent and non-Medicare Part D[1][6]. 3. **Complete Enrollment Form**: Download the **Oral Medication Enrollment Form** (English/Spanish) from viivpap.org or gskpaf.org. Patient and doctor sign/date it. Include: - Proof of income (tax return, W-2, pay stubs). - Front/back of insurance cards (if any). - Prescription[3][5][6]. 4. **Submit**: Fax to 1-844-208-7676 or mail per form instructions. Or email Patient Enrollment Form to info@viivconnectportal.com for initial review[3]. 5. **Follow Up**: An Access Coordinator contacts you in a few days to guide next steps[3]. **Pro Tip**: Use ViiVConnect (viivconnect.com) to check insurance coverage first—it links to PAP[2]. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Varies—phone enrollment can be quick for non-Medicare; Medicare Part D via mail/fax takes longer. Expect coordinator contact in days[3][6]. - **Supply**: Up to **90-day supply** per shipment[6]. - **Delivery**: **Medication shipped free to your home** (or doctor's office if specified)[6]. - **Refills**: Automatic if eligible; reauthorization may apply annually or as needed[1]. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **ViiVConnect Savings Card**: For insured patients—pay as low as $0 copay[4][7]. - **State ADAP**: If eligible, covers HIV meds[1]. - **RxHope or NeedyMeds**: Search other PAPs. - **Manufacturer Copay Programs**: Via viivconnect.com[2][8]. - **Appeal**: Contact program to discuss medical expenses or errors. Don't give up—your coordinator can explore options[9]. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of latest sources. **Eligibility, terms, and income limits can change**—always verify by calling **1-844-588-3288**. Not health insurance; consult your doctor for medical advice. ViiV Healthcare and GSK Patient Access Programs Foundation operate independently. For full terms, visit viivpap.org or gskpaf.org[1][4][5]. (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026