Vesicare

Indicated For

overactive bladder (OAB)

About This Medication

# Astellas Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get VESIcare (solifenacin succinate) at Low or No Cost VESIcare (solifenacin succinate) is a prescription medication used to treat overactive bladder symptoms in adults, including urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and urinary frequency. Astellas Pharma, the manufacturer, offers support through **Astellas Pharma Support Solutions (APSS)** and related patient assistance programs to help eligible patients access VESIcare at low or no cost.[2][3][4] ## About VESIcare **VESIcare** is a muscarinic antagonist that works by relaxing the bladder muscle to reduce symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). It comes in 5 mg and 10 mg tablets taken once daily with water, with or without food. The starting dose is typically 5 mg, which may be increased to 10 mg if tolerated. Do not exceed 5 mg if you have severe kidney problems, moderate liver issues, or take strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. Always consult your doctor before starting, especially if you have stomach issues, trouble urinating, glaucoma, or allergies to solifenacin.[4][6] VESIcare provides 24-hour symptom relief with a once-daily dose, helping adults manage daily life without frequent bathroom trips or accidents.[1][4] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? Astellas patient assistance programs, including the **ASTELLAS Patient Assist Program**, provide free medication to those who cannot afford it due to financial need. Qualification typically requires U.S. residency, a valid prescription for an FDA-approved use (like OAB), and meeting income guidelines. While exact thresholds vary and are not always publicly detailed, programs often target those at or below **300-400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, adjusted for household size and cost of living.[5][8] Other factors include lack of sufficient insurance coverage and medical necessity confirmed by your doctor. Programs like APSS also offer reimbursement support, copay assistance, and insurance navigation for commercially insured patients.[2][3][10] **Note:** Specific income limits for Astellas' direct program are not listed in available resources; contact APSS for personalized eligibility.[3][5] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Here's a general guide based on common patient assistance criteria (e.g., 400% FPL example for 2026; verify current FPL at HHS.gov): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (400% FPL) | Notes | |---------------|-------------------------------|-------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | May adjust for COLI[8] | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | Household-based[8] | | 3 | ~$102,000 | Includes dependents | | 4 | ~$123,000 | Larger families higher | Programs like Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF) Co-Pay Relief specify ≤400% FPL for insured patients with high copays.[8] Simplefill and PAN Foundation assist based on similar thresholds.[1][8] Always confirm with the program, as Astellas may have unique rules.[5] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured or underinsured:** Eligible for free medication through Astellas Patient Assist if income-qualified.[5] - **Commercially insured:** APSS helps with benefits investigation, prior authorizations, and copay cards. PAF and PAN cover copays/deductibles up to certain limits if income ≤400% FPL.[3][8][10] - **Medicare/Medicaid:** Medicare patients may qualify for copay help via PAN/PAF if not in coverage gap. Medicaid often covers fully; appeal denials. Contact programs to confirm, as assistance varies.[8] APSS coordinates prescription fulfillment and explores all options.[3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a prescription:** Ask your doctor for VESIcare and discuss assistance. 2. **Contact Astellas Pharma Support Solutions:** Call **1-800-477-6472** (APSS) for access/reimbursement help, or visit their site to select VESIcare.[3][10] 3. **Apply via Simplefill (easy option):** Call **1-877-386-0206** or apply online. A patient advocate interviews you within 24 hours, matches programs, submits applications, and handles enrollment.[1] 4. **Direct Astellas program:** Use RxAssist or call for ASTELLAS Patient Assist application; provide proof of income, residency, and prescription.[5] 5. **Copay programs:** For insured, check PAN Foundation or PAF (866-512-3861); apply online or by phone.[8] 6. **Submit documents:** Typically includes income proof (tax returns, pay stubs), prescription, ID, and insurance details.[1][5] 7. **Wait for approval:** Programs handle paperwork.[1] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Simplefill:** Interview within 24 hours; applications submitted promptly; ongoing monitoring for refills.[1] - **APSS:** Quick benefits check; fulfillment coordinated via mail or pharmacy.[3] - **General:** Processing 1-4 weeks; free shipping to your home or doctor's office. Refills automatic if eligible.[1][3] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal insurance:** If commercially insured, request prior authorization or appeal denial citing medical necessity.[8] - **Other foundations:** PAN, PAF, or state Medicaid.[8] - **Manufacturer call:** Contact Astellas directly for expanded options.[8] - **Discount cards/coupons:** Save up to 90% via NowPatient or pharmacy programs.[8] - **Generic solifenacin:** Ask your doctor about alternatives if available. - **Simplefill retry:** They find multiple programs.[1] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical or financial advice. Eligibility, terms, and availability change; contact programs directly for latest details. Consult your healthcare provider before starting VESIcare. Astellas programs support access but do not guarantee approval. Income tables are illustrative based on common criteria—verify current FPL and rules.[1][3][5][8] (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026