Zemplar

Abbott Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Zemplar (paricalcitol) at Low or No Cost

Zemplar (paricalcitol) is a prescription medication used to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, preventing bone and heart complications from CKD.[3] The Abbott Patient Assistance Foundation offers this vital drug at no cost to eligible patients facing financial hardship, particularly those without adequate insurance coverage.[1][2][3]

Who Qualifies for the Program?

This program targets financially disadvantaged individuals in the United States who need Zemplar but can't afford it due to lack of coverage or high costs. Key eligibility factors include:[2][3][5][6]

• Residency: Must be a U.S. resident.
• Financial Need: Household income is evaluated case-by-case; provide proof like tax returns, W-2s, pay stubs, or Social Security letters for all household members. No fixed Federal Poverty Level (FPL) threshold is specified—contact the program for your situation.[1][2][6]
• Insurance Status: Typically for patients with no health insurance or inadequate prescription coverage. Medicare Part D patients may qualify case-by-case; submit your Medicare card or denial letters from Medicaid/Social Security.[2][5][6]
• Prescription: Valid prescription for Zemplar (capsules or injection) from a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider.[3]

Important: All applications are reviewed individually. Even if you have some coverage, explain your financial barriers.[3][6]

About Zemplar (paricalcitol)

Zemplar is a synthetic vitamin D analog that lowers parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in CKD patients. It's available as capsules (for oral use) or injection (often given during dialysis).[3] Common uses:

• Managing secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients.
• Helps maintain bone health and prevent vascular calcification.

Why it's essential: Without treatment, high PTH can lead to weak bones, fractures, itching, and heart issues. If you're on dialysis, your doctor monitors PTH, calcium, and phosphorus to adjust dosing.[3] Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions—do not stop or change doses without advice.

Income Eligibility Breakdown

The program does not publish fixed income limits like 400% of the FPL. Eligibility is determined case-by-case based on total household income (salary, pensions, Social Security, etc.) and size.[1][2][6] Here's a general guide based on similar programs (contact Abbott for exacts):

Pro Tip: Even if near limits, apply—exceptions for high medical costs or denials from other aid.[5] Submit most recent income docs: 1040, W-2, paystubs (last 30 days), SSA-1099.[2][4][6]

Insurance Requirements

• Uninsured or Underinsured: Ideal candidates.[3][5]
• Medicare/Medicaid: Provide Medicare card, Medicaid denial, or QMB/SLMB statement. Part D enrollees reviewed individually.[2][5][6]
• Private Insurance: Must show inadequate coverage (e.g., high copays/deductibles). Program doesn't cover premiums.[3]
• No Dual Coverage: Can't use if eligible for other Abbott funding sources.[6]

If insured, exhaust other options first, like manufacturer copay cards.[5]

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Get the Application: Call 1-800-222-6885 (Mon-Fri, business hours) or visit www.abbottpatientassistancefoundation.org (if available). Your doctor can request it too.[1][2][3]
2. Fill It Out: Doctor completes prescriber section (signs/dates). You provide:
   • Personal info (name, address, DOB, household size/income).
   • Insurance details.
   • Patient signature/date.[1][2]
3. Gather Documents:
   • Income proof for all household members.[2][6]
   • Medicare card or denial letters (if applicable).[2]
   • Authorization if someone else signs for you.[2]
4. Submit: Fax to 1-866-898-1473 or mail to P.O. Box 270, Somerset, NJ 08876 (confirm current address by phone).[1][2] No email mentioned.
5. Wait for Notification: Doctor's office and you get eligibility update.[2]

Checklist:

• All sections complete (incomplete = delay).[2][6]
• Prescriber + patient signatures.[1][2]
• No originals—copies OK.[6]

Timeline and Delivery

• Processing: Upon receipt of complete app, notification sent (days to weeks; call for status).[2]
• Approval: Meds shipped free to doctor's office (not home).[1][2][3]
• Supply Duration: Typically 1-3 months; reapply as needed.[2]
• Refills: New app or reauthorization; notify if insurance/finances change.[2][6]

Patience Tip: Track via phone. Delays from missing docs.[2]

Alternatives if Denied

• Reapply: Fix issues (e.g., more income proof).[2]
• Other PAPs: NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or PAN Foundation for CKD meds.[5]
• Generic Paricalcitol: Check availability/copay help.
• State Programs: Medicaid expansion or dialysis-specific aid.
• Manufacturer Copay Cards: For insured (abbvie.com or similar).
• Simplefill: Free help applying to PAPs (877-386-0206).[5]
• No Biosimilars listed for Zemplar.[program data]

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes based on available data as of 2026. Program details change—always verify with Abbott at 1-800-222-6885.[1][2] Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment. Abbott not liable for application errors. Eligibility not guaranteed.[3][6] Word count: ~950.