Tasigna

Indicated For

Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML), BCR-ABL1 CML

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) 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. The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** helps eligible patients get Tasigna at no cost if they meet income, residency, and insurance criteria.[1][2][3] ## About Tasigna (nilotinib) **Tasigna** is a **tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)** that blocks specific proteins in cancer cells, slowing or stopping the growth of abnormal white blood cells in **Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML)**. It's approved for newly diagnosed adults and children over 1 year old, as well as those whose cancer has progressed or not responded to other treatments like Gleevec (imatinib).[1] Common side effects include nausea, rash, fatigue, and low blood counts—always discuss with your doctor. Tasigna can cost over $10,000 per month without assistance, making programs like NPAF vital for uninsured or low-income patients.[3] ## Who Qualifies for NPAF? To qualify, you must: - Live in the **United States or U.S. territory**. - Have **limited or no prescription insurance** (details below). - Meet **income guidelines** up to **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, which varies by household size and Tasigna-specific rules. - Have a **valid prescription** from a U.S. licensed healthcare provider (HCP) for outpatient treatment.[1][2][3][5] NPAF reviews applications holistically, but income is key. Check exact thresholds for Tasigna at www.PAP.Novartis.com, as they may differ slightly by product.[2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **annual household income** (from your most recent tax return) compared to **400% FPL**. Use household size from your **1040 tax return**. Here's a table based on 2026 FPL guidelines (adjust for current year via HHS.gov): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 400% FPL (Max for NPAF) | |---------------|----------|-------------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | **$60,240** | | 2 | $20,440 | **$81,760** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$103,280** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$124,800** | *Add ~$5,380 per additional person for 400% FPL. Proof: first 2 pages of 1040 tax return (or contact NPAF if no taxes filed).* Notes: Vary by product/household; exceptions possible. Call (800) 277-2254 to confirm.[1][2][5] ## Insurance Requirements You generally need **no private or public prescription coverage**. Submit front/back copies of **all** insurance cards (primary, secondary, Rx).[1][2] **Exceptions**: - **Medicare Part D or B**: Eligible if you need help with cost-sharing (deductibles, copays) after prior authorization (PA) or appeal denial—include PA/appeal docs.[1] - No coverage at all? Ideal for approval. - Active coverage? Likely ineligible unless it's minimal and you provide denial proof.[3][7] ## Step-by-Step Application Process NPAF uses a **split application**: Patient and HCP complete separate sections. Multiple methods: phone, fax, mail.[3] 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com or call (800) 277-2254 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm EST) to confirm Tasigna qualifies and your fit.[2][3][4] 2. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (1040 first 2 pages). - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill). - Prescription for Tasigna. - Insurance cards (front/back) + PA/denials if applicable.[1][5] 3. **Complete Patient Section**: Download form from PAP site or call. Include personal info, income, insurance, caregiver authorization, signature/date.[1][2] 4. **HCP Completes Their Section**: Doctor fills prescriber info, signs Rx and authorization. Fax/mail separately if needed.[4][5] 5. **Submit**: - **Phone**: (800) 282-7630 or (800) 277-2254 for help.[1] - **Fax**: 1-855-817-2711.[1][2][4][5] - **Mail**: NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 or PO Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029 (use latest).[1][2][5] **Tip**: Incomplete apps delay/deny—double-check![1][2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: ~**4 weeks** from complete submission. Get letter/text with status/next steps.[3][5] - Approved? Medication **shipped free to your home** (not pharmacy).[1] - **Reauthorization**: Yes, annually or per supply (e.g., 3-12 months). Resubmit updated docs.[8] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Call NPAF; provide more docs.[6] - **Other Novartis Programs**: Check PAP site for copay cards if insured. - **State Programs**: Medicaid, Rx relief foundations. - **Generic/Biosimilars**: None listed for Tasigna. - **Simplefill** or RxHope for navigation help.[9][7] - Reapply after changes (e.g., income drop).[6] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available NPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility/rules change—**always verify with NPAF at (800) 277-2254 or www.PAP.Novartis.com**. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your HCP. Novartis not liable for errors. Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026