Zemplar

Indicated For

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) on dialysis

About This Medication

# 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): | Household Size | Estimated Income Consideration | Notes | |---------------|-------------------------------|-------| | 1 (Individual) | Up to ~$50,000/year | Case-by-case; lower is better[6] | | 2 (Couple) | Up to ~$65,000/year | Include all earners[2] | | 3 | Up to ~$80,000/year | Proof for everyone required[6] | | 4+ | Up to ~$95,000+/year | Scales with dependents under 18[2] | **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.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026