Tafinlar

Indicated For

melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, solid tumors, thyroid cancer

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Tafinlar (dabrafenib) at Low or No Cost Tafinlar (dabrafenib) is a targeted therapy medication used to treat certain types of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, and other cancers with specific genetic mutations like BRAF V600E or V600K. It works by blocking enzymes that cancer cells need to grow, helping to slow or stop tumor progression when used alone or with other drugs like Mekinist (trametinib).[1][2] This guide explains how the **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** can provide **Tafinlar** at no cost if you qualify, making life-saving treatment accessible for those facing financial hardship. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The NPAF helps **U.S. residents** (including territories) who lack prescription insurance or can't afford their medication, have a valid prescription, and meet income guidelines based on **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**—typically up to 400-500% FPL depending on the drug (check www.pap.novartis.com for Tafinlar specifics).[1][3][6] You must be treated outpatient by a licensed U.S. healthcare provider. Patients with private insurance may qualify for a separate co-pay program, but **not Medicare or Medicaid**.[1][2] **Key eligibility criteria**: - Reside in the U.S. or U.S. territory. - Limited or no prescription coverage. - Income within program limits. - Valid prescription for Tafinlar. This program is ideal for uninsured patients or those with high out-of-pocket costs struggling to pay for Tafinlar, which can cost thousands per month without assistance.[4] ## About Tafinlar (dabrafenib) **Tafinlar** is an oral capsule taken twice daily, FDA-approved for: - Unresectable or metastatic **BRAF V600E-mutant melanoma** (alone or with Mekinist). - **BRAF V600E-mutant metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)**. - **BRAF V600E-mutant solid tumors** in pediatric patients aged 1+. Common side effects include fever, chills, fatigue, rash, headache, and joint pain; serious risks involve skin cancers, heart issues, eye problems, and bleeding—discuss with your doctor.[2] NPAF covers the medication cost, but you'll still need monitoring from your healthcare team. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific FPL percentages for Tafinlar aren't listed here (visit www.pap.novartis.com for current thresholds, as they vary by drug and household size).[1][3] Generally, NPAF uses a sliding scale up to ~400-500% FPL. Provide proof like the first 2 pages of your 1040 tax return.[2][6] Here's a sample **FPL table** (2026 estimates; confirm exacts online): | Household Size | 400% FPL (Approx. Annual Income) | 500% FPL (Approx. Annual Income) | |---------------|---------------------------------|---------------------------------| | 1 | $60,320 | $75,400 | | 2 | $81,760 | $102,200 | | 3 | $103,200 | $129,000 | | 4 | $124,640 | $155,800 | *Notes: Household size from tax return. Non-filers contact NPAF. Other proof (W-2, paystubs, 1099) accepted if needed.*[2][6][10] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured or underinsured**: Primary program for those without coverage or unable to afford meds.[1][3] - **Private insurance**: Separate co-pay assistance (not via NPAF); submit insurance cards (front/back).[2] - **Medicare/Medicaid**: Ineligible for NPAF; explore Extra Help denial proof if applicable.[1][7] - Include prior authorization (PA) or appeal denials if insured.[2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check eligibility**: Visit www.pap.novartis.com; search Tafinlar.[1][3] 2. **Download form**: Get from website or call (800) 277-2254 / (800) 282-7630.[1][5][6] 3. **Gather documents**: - Proof of income (tax return pages 1-2). - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill). - Prescription for Tafinlar. - Insurance info (cards front/back; PA if needed).[1][2][6] 4. **Complete application**: Patient section (info, signature), HCP section (prescription, authorization).[3][5] 5. **Submit**: Fax 1-855-817-2711 or mail PO Box 2529/52029, Columbus OH 43216 or Phoenix AZ 85072.[2][5][6] **Tip**: Incomplete apps delay/deny—double-check![1][3] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: ~4 weeks; get letter/text on status.[1][6] - If approved, **shipped free to your home** (90-day supply typical).[1] - **Reauthorization**: Required yearly or per guidelines; resubmit docs.[1] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact NPAF for missing info.[1] - **Co-pay program**: For insured (Novartis site).[4][7] - **Other PAPs**: PANO, Simplefill, RxHope, or state programs.[7][10] - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or **HealthWell Foundation** for cancer meds. - Generic/biosimilars: None for Tafinlar.[1] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes; eligibility/rules change—verify at www.pap.novartis.com or call NPAF. Novartis reserves rights to modify/deny. Not medical/financial advice; consult doctor/financial advisor. Program doesn't cover non-med costs.[1][3]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026