Tasigna

Indicated For

Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML)

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get **Tasigna (nilotinib)** at Low or No Cost Tasigna (nilotinib) is a targeted therapy medication used to treat **chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)** in adults and children. It works by blocking enzymes that cancer cells need to grow, helping to control the disease and achieve remission. This guide explains how the **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** can provide **Tasigna** free or at low cost to eligible patients who are uninsured or underinsured and meet income guidelines[1][3]. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The NPAF helps U.S. residents (including territories) who need Novartis medications like Tasigna but face financial barriers. Key eligibility criteria include: - **Residency**: Live in the U.S. or U.S. territories[1][2][3]. - **Treatment**: Be treated outpatient by a licensed U.S. healthcare provider[1][3][6]. - **Insurance**: Have no private or public prescription coverage, or be underinsured without adequate coverage for Tasigna. If insured, provide proof of denial or prior authorization failure[2][3][4][5]. - **Income**: Household income must meet sliding-scale limits based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), adjusted for household size. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits[1][3]. Exact thresholds vary; check www.pap.novartis.com for current guidelines[3][6]. - **Prescription**: Valid prescription for Tasigna from your doctor[1][5]. **Note**: Health plans, pharmacies, or their agents cannot enroll you. Only patients, guardians, or caregivers may apply[3]. ## About Tasigna (nilotinib) **Tasigna** is a kinase inhibitor specifically for **Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML)** in chronic phase, accelerated phase, or blast phase. It's taken orally, typically twice daily on an empty stomach. Common side effects include nausea, rash, fatigue, and low blood counts; serious risks involve heart issues, QT prolongation, and fluid retention—discuss with your doctor. Without insurance, Tasigna's list price can exceed $10,000+ per month, making assistance programs vital[1][3]. NPAF provides it at no cost if approved[3]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown NPAF uses **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** guidelines on a sliding scale. Provide proof like tax returns, pay stubs, or bank statements. Limits depend on household size (everyone on your tax return)[1][4][6]. | Household Size | Max Annual Income (Contiguous U.S., approx. 400% FPL)* | Alaska/Hawaii (Higher Limits) | |---------------|-----------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------| | 1 | ~$60,000 | Check pap.novartis.com | | 2 | ~$81,000 | Check pap.novartis.com | | 3 | ~$102,000 | Check pap.novartis.com | | 4 | ~$123,000 | Check pap.novartis.com | | 5+ | Add ~$21,000 per person | Check pap.novartis.com | *Estimates based on 2023-2026 FPL trends; verify exact/current at www.pap.novartis.com as they adjust yearly. Income includes all household earners[1][3][4]. ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: No prescription coverage (private, Medicare, Medicaid, etc.)[2][5]. - **Underinsured**: Coverage exists but doesn't cover Tasigna fully—submit denial letter, prior authorization (PA) rejection, or appeal outcome[3][4][6][7]. - **Medicare Patients**: Generally ineligible if on Medicare Part D without proof of Extra Help denial[3]. Submit front/back copies of all insurance cards[6][7]. If your situation changes (e.g., gain insurance), notify NPAF at 1-800-277-2254[2][4]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.pap.novartis.com, enter Tasigna and your details[3][6]. 2. **Download Form**: Get the application from the site (Patient Section, Prescriber Section)[2][6]. 3. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (tax return first 2 pages, 3 months pay stubs/bank statements/unemployment)[1][4][6]. - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill)[program data]. - Prescription for Tasigna[5]. - Proof of no insurance or denial (insurance cards front/back, PA denial)[3][7]. 4. **Complete Sections**: Fill Patient Section (income, insurance, household size). Doctor completes Prescription/Healthcare Professional Section, signs, and faxes prescription if separate[2][6]. 5. **Submit**: - **Mail**: Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation, P.O. Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029 (or updated address like PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216)[1][2][7]. - **Fax**: 1-855-817-2711 (from doctor's office with cover sheet)[1][2][4]. - Phone help: 1-800-277-2254 or (800) 282-7630[1][2][program data]. **Tip**: Use the checklist—complete all fields, attach copies (no originals), sign/date[2][4]. Incomplete apps delay or deny[6]. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: ~4 weeks for decision letter (text if opted in)[1][3]. - **Delivery**: Shipped free to your home if approved[program data]. - **Reauthorization**: Required periodically; doctor resubmits[program data]. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Review Denial**: Letter explains why (e.g., income too high, insured). Call 1-800-277-2254 for questions[1][10]. - **Reapply**: Fix issues, resubmit[3]. - **Other Programs**: Novartis co-pay assistance (if insured), Simplefill, RxHope, or state programs[8][9]. No biosimilars for Tasigna listed[program data]. - **Extra Help**: Apply for Medicare Low-Income Subsidy if eligible. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program data as of 2026. Eligibility, guidelines, and processes can change; always verify at www.pap.novartis.com or call NPAF. NPAF reserves rights to modify/deny/verify[3]. Not medical/financial advice—consult your doctor and advisor. Do not send originals; program not for insured with coverage[2][4]. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026