Viokace

Zenpep and Viokace Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Viokace at Low or No Cost

Viokace (pancrelipase) is a prescription medication used to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), a condition where the pancreas doesn't produce enough digestive enzymes, helping patients digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates more effectively.[1][2] The Zenpep and Viokace Patient Assistance Program from Nestlé Health Science provides eligible patients with a 90-day supply of Viokace tablets at no cost, shipped directly to your prescriber's office.[1][2][3]

Who Qualifies for the Program?

This program helps uninsured, underinsured, or low-income patients in the US and Puerto Rico who need Viokace but can't afford it.[3] It's needs-based, meaning financial eligibility is key, though exact income thresholds like Federal Poverty Level (FPL) percentages are not detailed in available sources.[1][2] Medicare patients have special rules: those with income below 150% FPL must apply for and be denied Extra Help first.[2] Non-Medicare patients can get up to 12 months of coverage; Medicare enrollees are limited to the end of the calendar year.[1][3]

Key eligibility factors:

• US or Puerto Rico resident.
• Financial need demonstrated by proof of income.
• Valid prescription for Viokace from a licensed prescriber.
• For Medicare Part D patients: denial from Extra Help if income <150% FPL.[2]

About Viokace

Viokace is pancrelipase in tablet form, an enzyme replacement therapy for EPI due to cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic surgery, or other conditions.[1][5] Unlike capsules, tablets are not enteric-coated, so they must be taken with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) like omeprazole to prevent enzyme breakdown in the stomach. Typical dosing is based on body weight and fat intake—your doctor will determine the right amount. Always take as prescribed with meals to aid digestion and prevent malnutrition.[1]

Important safety note: High doses can risk fibrosing colonopathy; follow your prescriber's guidance closely.

Income Eligibility Breakdown

Specific income limits (e.g., % of FPL) are not publicly detailed in program documents, but eligibility requires proof of gross monthly household income.[1][2] Expect guidelines similar to other PAPs, often around 400-500% FPL, but call (855) 210-6228 to confirm your situation.[1][2][3] Medicare patients below 150% FPL need Extra Help denial.[2]

Here's a general reference table for context (based on 2026 FPL estimates; verify current figures):

Notes: Provide pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or Social Security letters. Household includes all members.[1][2] Exact thresholds require program confirmation.

Insurance Requirements

No specific insurance is required—you can be uninsured, underinsured, Medicare, or Medicaid.[3] However:

• Medicare Part D patients below 150% FPL must be denied Extra Help.[2]
• Program covers gaps for those with high out-of-pocket costs.[1][3] Contact the program for your insurance type.[1]

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Get an application: Call (855) 210-6228 (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm CST) to request one by mail, fax, or email.[1][2][3]
2. Complete patient sections: Fill out Page 2 (info, income, coverage) and sign Pages 3-4 (certification and authorization, valid 12 months).[2]
3. Prescriber completes their part: Doctor provides license, DEA, NPI, and signs.[1][2]
4. Gather documents:
   • Proof of income (tax return, W-2, pay stubs, SS award letter).[1][2]
   • Valid 3-month prescription for Viokace.[1]
   • Healthcare benefits statement if applicable.[2]
   • Notarized Power of Attorney if you can't sign.[2]
5. Submit: Fax from doctor's office to 1-877-867-1831 (include fax banner) or mail to Zenpep and Viokace Patient Assistance Program, PO BOX 66520, St. Louis, MO 63166.[1][2]

Tip: Ensure all sections are complete—incomplete apps are rejected.[2]

Timeline and Delivery

Allow 4 weeks for processing and delivery after submission.[2] Notification goes to you and your prescriber.[2][3] If approved, a 90-day supply ships to the prescriber's office (30-day option possible).[1][3] Reauthorization is required annually (or end-of-year for Medicare).[1][3]

Alternatives if Denied

• Appeal: Submit physician letter of necessity, detailed budget/expenses, household breakdown, and proof of out-of-pocket costs.[1]
• Other programs: Z-SAVE for commercial insurance (as low as $0 copay).[5][6] LIVE2THRIVE for CF patients.[4] Simplefill for application help: (877) 386-0206.[8]
• Extra Help for Medicare (if eligible).[2]
• Call program for guidance.[1]

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes based on available sources as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change—always verify with Nestlé Health Science at (855) 210-6228 or nestlehealthscience.us/patient-assistance-program.[1][2] Not medical advice; consult your doctor. Program not guaranteed; individual results vary.