Simulect

Indicated For

kidney transplant rejection prophylaxis

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) Patient Guide: How to Get Simulect (basiliximab) at Low or No Cost Simulect (basiliximab) is a prescription medication used to help prevent organ rejection in kidney transplant patients. The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** offers this important drug at low or no cost to eligible patients who meet specific income and insurance criteria.[1][2][3] ## About Simulect (basiliximab) **Simulect**, or basiliximab, is an **immunosuppressant** medication given by injection. It works by targeting and blocking part of the immune system to reduce the risk of your body rejecting a new kidney after transplant surgery. Typically, it's administered in the hospital around the time of your transplant—usually two doses: one right before surgery and another 4 days later. This helps give your new kidney the best chance to succeed.[1][3] It's not for everyone—your transplant team decides if it's right for you based on your health needs. Common side effects can include swelling, high blood pressure, or increased risk of infections, so stay in close touch with your doctor. Always follow your healthcare provider's (HCP) instructions precisely. ## Who Qualifies for NPAF? The NPAF program helps U.S. residents (including territories) who need Novartis medications like Simulect but struggle with costs. Key requirements include: - **Reside in the U.S. or U.S. territory**. - **Limited or no prescription insurance coverage** (more on this below). - **Meet income guidelines** based on Federal Poverty Level (FPL)—exact limits vary by medication, household size, and state (Alaska/Hawaii have higher thresholds).[1][2][5] - **Valid prescription** from a licensed U.S. HCP for outpatient treatment. - **Proof of income** and other documents.[3] NPAF does **not** cover patients with certain alternative funding insurance or those in institutional settings. It's for outpatient use only.[2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are tied to the **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, typically up to **400-500% of FPL** depending on the drug—check www.PAP.Novartis.com for Simulect specifics, as they vary.[2][5] Household size is based on your tax return (Form 1040). Alaska and Hawaii have different (higher) limits. Here's a general example table based on 2026 FPL guidelines (always verify current levels on the NPAF site or by calling 1-800-277-2254): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (400% FPL Example) | Notes | |---------------|-------------------------------------|-------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | Varies by drug/state | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | Includes dependents | | 3 | ~$102,000 | Tax return household | | 4 | ~$123,000 | Alaska/HI higher | **Important**: These are illustrative—**exact Simulect thresholds are listed at www.PAP.Novartis.com**. Provide the first 2 pages of your latest 1040 tax return (or contact NPAF if not required to file).[1][5] ## Insurance Requirements You must have **limited or no prescription insurance**. This means: - **Uninsured** for prescriptions, or - **Underinsured** (e.g., insurance denies coverage, high copays you can't afford).[1][2] Submit **front/back copies of ALL insurance cards** (primary, secondary, Rx). If insured, include **Prior Authorization (PA) denial** or appeal outcomes. Medicare patients may need **Extra Help denial proof** if applicable. NPAF won't approve if you have coverage from alternative funding programs.[1][3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying is straightforward but requires completeness—**incomplete apps delay or get denied**.[1][2][4] 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com. Search for Simulect to confirm income limits and if you qualify.[2][3] 2. **Download & Start Application**: Get the form from the site or call 1-800-277-2254 (Mon-Fri, ~8am-8pm ET). Patient and HCP each complete sections.[1][4] 3. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (first 2 pages of 1040 tax return, W-2, paystubs, etc.).[1][5][7] - Insurance cards (front/back).[1] - Extra Help denial (if applicable).[3] - Valid Simulect prescription.[7] 4. **Complete Sections**: - **Patient**: Personal info, income, household size, insurance, authorization signature.[1][9] - **HCP**: Treatment details, prescription, authorization.[4] 5. **Submit**: - **Fax**: 1-855-817-2711 - **Mail**: NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 (or check form for latest).[1][5][9] Call 1-800-277-2254 for help or questions.[3][4] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Up to **4 weeks** from complete submission. You'll get a letter (and text if opted in) with next steps or decision.[3] - **Delivery**: If approved, Simulect ships free to **you or your physician**'s office.[1] Track status by calling the hotline. Annual review may apply.[8] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Review denial letter** for reasons (e.g., income too high, insurance issue).[3][6] - **Reapply** with fixes or new info.[6] - **Other options**: Novartis co-pay programs (if insured), state assistance, generic alternatives (none listed for Simulect), or PAN Foundation. Call 1-800-277-2254 for guidance.[6] - **Medicare Extra Help** or LIS if eligible.[3] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on available NPAF details as of latest updates. **Eligibility, income limits, addresses, and terms can change**—always verify at www.PAP.Novartis.com or 1-800-277-2254. NPAF reserves the right to modify/discontinue. Not medical advice—consult your HCP. Novartis not liable for application errors.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026