Verzenio

Indicated For

HR+ HER2- breast cancer

About This Medication

# Lilly Cares Patient Guide: How to Get Verzenio at Low or No Cost Verzenio (abemaciclib) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of advanced or metastatic breast cancer in adults. The **Lilly Cares** program from Eli Lilly and Company helps eligible patients—typically those who are uninsured or underinsured and meet income guidelines—obtain Verzenio **free of charge** by shipping it directly to them or their doctor's office. ## About Verzenio **Verzenio** is a targeted therapy known as a CDK 4/6 inhibitor. It works by blocking proteins that cancer cells need to divide and grow, helping to slow the progression of hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer. It is often used in combination with other treatments like hormone therapy (such as an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant) after other therapies have been tried, or following surgery for early-stage disease at high risk of recurrence[1][5]. Common side effects include diarrhea (often the most frequent), low white blood cell counts, nausea, headache, infections, fatigue, and decreased appetite. Your doctor will monitor you closely, especially for low blood counts and diarrhea, which may require dose adjustments or supportive care like anti-diarrheal medications. Always take Verzenio exactly as prescribed—usually twice daily with or without food—and report any severe side effects immediately[5]. Verzenio is taken orally as tablets (50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, or 200 mg strengths), and treatment is typically continuous unless your doctor advises otherwise. Without insurance or assistance, Verzenio can cost thousands of dollars per month, making programs like Lilly Cares essential for many patients[1][5]. ## Who Qualifies for Lilly Cares? Lilly Cares is designed for **uninsured or underinsured patients** who cannot afford their medication and live in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands. You must have a valid prescription for Verzenio for an FDA-approved use and meet income eligibility based on **qualifying income limits**, often tied to Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines—though exact percentages vary and should be confirmed during application[4][10]. Patients with Medicare Part D may qualify if their insurance does not cover Verzenio or if they face high out-of-pocket costs[10]. The program prioritizes those without alternative funding options, providing free medication to enhance access and health outcomes[4]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds for Lilly Cares are not publicly listed as fixed numbers in all sources, as they adjust annually based on FPL and program guidelines. General patient assistance benchmarks suggest eligibility around **$40,000 or less for an individual** and **$100,000 or less for a household**, but you must verify with Lilly Cares for current limits[1]. Here's a sample table based on common FPL-based thresholds (e.g., 400-500% FPL; call to confirm exacts for 2026): | Household Size | Estimated Annual Income Limit (USD) | Notes | |---------------|-------------------------------------|-------| | 1 (Individual) | Up to ~$60,000 | Qualifying income; varies by program year | | 2 (Couple) | Up to ~$80,000 | Includes all household income | | 3 | Up to ~$100,000 | Uninsured/underinsured priority | | 4 | Up to ~$120,000 | Proof required; FPL-based | *Table is illustrative; actual limits require phone verification at (800) 545-6962[1][4].* ## Insurance Requirements Lilly Cares targets **uninsured patients** or those who **cannot afford their medication** despite insurance. If you have Medicare Part D, you may still qualify if coverage is inadequate[10]. Commercial insurance patients might explore other Lilly options like the Verzenio Savings Card (as low as $0 copay for eligible commercially insured, up to $10,600 annual savings, max 14 fills/year), but Lilly Cares is for those without viable coverage[2][6][9]. Government beneficiaries (e.g., Medicaid) are often excluded from copay cards but may qualify for Lilly Cares[9]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm Eligibility**: Call **(800) 545-6962** to discuss your situation, income, and insurance. Lilly Cares applications start by phone—no online form[program details]. 2. **Gather Documents**: Prepare **proof of income** (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs, SSI/SSDI letters), **proof of residency** (e.g., utility bill, driver's license), and a **prescription** from your doctor for Verzenio[program details]. 3. **Submit Application**: Provide details over the phone; Lilly staff will guide you. Your doctor's office may need to complete a prescriber section. 4. **Approval Wait**: Processing time varies (often 4-6 weeks for first shipment)[1]. 5. **Receive Medication**: If approved, Verzenio ships **free** to you or your physician[program details]. **Reauthorization is required** periodically to confirm ongoing eligibility[program details]. ## Timeline and Delivery Expect **4-6 weeks** for initial approval and first shipment after enrollment[1]. Subsequent shipments follow reauthorization. Medication is **shipped directly to the patient or doctor's office** at no cost[program details]. Stay in touch with Lilly Cares for renewals to avoid gaps. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Verzenio Savings Card**: For commercially insured; pay $0 per month (up to limits)[2][6]. Call 800-545-5979. - **Rx Advocates**: $80/month service fee for Verzenio via PAPs (one-time $35 enrollment)[1]. - **90-Day Supply**: Reduces pharmacy trips/costs if insured[5]. - **Medicare Extra Help**: Lowers copays if eligible[7]. - **Other Lilly Programs**: Verzenio Continuous Care or MyRightDose for dose support[3]. - **PhRMA/NeedyMeds**: General assistance directories[5]. If denied, ask for reasons and reapply with updated docs, or appeal. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical or financial advice. Eligibility, terms, and income limits can change; always contact Lilly Cares at (800) 545-6962 for latest details. Consult your doctor for treatment decisions. Program availability as of general knowledge; verify current status.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026