Velcade

Indicated For

Multiple myeloma, mantle cell lymphoma

About This Medication

# Here2Assist Patient Guide: How to Get Velcade at Low or No Cost Velcade (bortezomib) is a prescription medication used to treat certain blood cancers like multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma, and the **Here2Assist** program from **Takeda Oncology** helps eligible patients access it at low or no cost if uninsured or underinsured.[1][7] ## About Velcade (Bortezomib) **Velcade** is a targeted therapy that works by blocking proteasomes—cellular structures that break down proteins—in cancer cells, slowing their growth and spread. It's FDA-approved for multiple myeloma (a cancer of plasma cells) and mantle cell lymphoma after prior therapies.[1][7] Velcade is typically given as an injection under the skin or into a vein, often 1-2 times per week in cycles lasting 3 weeks (21 days), such as days 1, 4, 8, and 11 followed by a rest period.[2][3][6] The usual adult dose is 1.3 mg/m², adjusted based on your height, weight, side effects, or conditions like liver impairment.[2][3] Common uses include: - Multiple myeloma, alone or with drugs like dexamethasone or thalidomide. - Mantle cell lymphoma in adults.[6][7] **Side effects** may include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, low blood counts, peripheral neuropathy (numbness/tingling), and infection risk. Drink 2-3 liters of water daily, eat a balanced diet, and report symptoms to your doctor. Doses may be reduced (e.g., to 0.7 mg/m²) for severe side effects.[1][2][3] Always follow your doctor's instructions, as treatment cycles (up to 6-8) depend on your response.[2][3] ## Who Qualifies for Here2Assist? This program supports **uninsured or underinsured patients**, including those who lose insurance coverage. It's designed for U.S. patients prescribed Velcade by their doctor who can't afford it due to cost or coverage gaps.[insuranceRequirements] **Income eligibility**: Specific household income thresholds are not listed, but programs like this typically consider federal poverty levels (FPL). Contact the program for your situation, as eligibility often covers up to 400-500% FPL or more for underinsured. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown | Household Size | Up to 400% FPL (Example) | Up to 500% FPL (Example) | |---------------|---------------------------|---------------------------| | 1 | $58,320 | $72,900 | | 2 | $78,880 | $98,600 | | 3 | $99,440 | $124,300 | | 4 | $120,000 | $150,000 | | +1 person | +$20,560 | +$25,700 | *Note: These are illustrative based on 2026 FPL estimates; call (844) 817-6468 for exact criteria, as no specific thresholds are published.*[incomeThresholds] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Fully eligible. - **Underinsured**: If insurance denies coverage, has high copays, or doesn't cover Velcade. - **Medicare/Medicaid**: May qualify if there's a coverage gap (e.g., Part D donut hole); not for those with full government coverage. - Patients losing insurance (e.g., job change) are prioritized.[insuranceRequirements] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a prescription**: Ask your oncologist for Velcade and a referral to Here2Assist. 2. **Call to apply**: Dial **(844) 817-6468** (Monday-Friday, typical business hours). No online form; phone applications only.[applicationMethod][applicationPhone] 3. **Provide info**: Share your details, doctor's info, insurance status, and household income. 4. **Submit documents**: No standard list, but expect proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), prescription, and insurance denial (if applicable).[requiredDocuments] 5. **Approval wait**: 24-72 hours typically.[processingTime] 6. **Receive medication**: Shipped free to your doctor's office or home.[deliveryMethod] Your doctor may handle parts of this; involve them early. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Application review**: 24-72 hours.[processingTime] - **Delivery**: Direct ship to physician office or patient home, usually within days of approval.[deliveryMethod] - **Treatment start**: Coordinate with your schedule; Velcade needs prompt use per cycles.[2] **Reauthorization**: Required periodically—your doctor must reconfirm need.[reauthorizationRequired] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Other assistance**: PAN Foundation, HealthWell Foundation, or Patient Access Network for myeloma drugs. - **Generic bortezomib**: If available and appropriate. - **Manufacturer samples**: Ask your doctor for Takeda samples. - **State programs**: Check for cancer drug aid. - **No biosimilars listed**.[biosimilarAlternatives] Discuss with your healthcare team; denial appeals are possible via phone. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on available program details as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change—**always verify directly with Here2Assist at (844) 817-6468 or Takeda Oncology**. Not medical advice; consult your doctor for Velcade suitability, side effects, or alternatives. Program not guaranteed; individual results vary. Takeda Oncology reserves rights to modify or end the program.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026