Zortress

Indicated For

Organ transplant rejection prevention, renal cell carcinoma, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Zortress (everolimus) at Low or No Cost Zortress (everolimus) is a prescription medication used to prevent organ rejection in kidney transplant patients, and the **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** offers it free to eligible uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients who meet income guidelines.[1][2][3] ## About Zortress (everolimus) **Zortress** is an immunosuppressant drug that helps prevent your body from rejecting a transplanted kidney. It works by blocking a protein called mTOR, which plays a role in immune cell growth. Doctors typically prescribe it along with other medications like cyclosporine and corticosteroids after kidney transplantation. Common side effects may include mouth sores, diarrhea, fatigue, and increased risk of infections—always discuss these with your healthcare provider (HCP). If you're struggling to afford Zortress, the NPAF program can provide it at no cost if you qualify, easing the financial burden of this critical therapy.[1][3] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? To join the NPAF, you must: - Live in the United States or a U.S. territory.[3][5] - Have limited or no prescription insurance coverage (uninsured or underinsured).[3][5] - Meet **product-specific income guidelines** based on Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which vary by household size and the medication (check exact thresholds for Zortress at www.PAP.Novartis.com).[1][2][5] - Have a valid prescription from a licensed U.S. HCP for outpatient treatment.[3][5] The program may also help qualifying Medicare patients with limited income by providing free medication.[program details] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown NPAF income limits are **not fixed** across all products—they depend on the specific drug like Zortress and your household size (as listed on your tax return). Limits are typically set at a percentage of the FPL, such as 400-500% in many cases, but you **must verify exact Zortress thresholds** on the official site or by calling 1-800-277-2254.[1][2][3][5] Here's a general example table of how FPL-based eligibility often works (2026 guidelines; confirm current at PAP.Novartis.com): | Household Size | Example Max Annual Income (at 400% FPL) | |----------------|-----------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | | 3 | ~$102,000 | | 4 | ~$123,000 | *Notes: Add ~$21,000 per additional person. Proof required: first 2 pages of recent 1040 tax return (or contact NPAF if no taxes filed). Guidelines vary by product—Zortress may differ.*[1][5] ## Insurance Requirements This program targets **uninsured or underinsured patients**. Submit front/back copies of all insurance cards (primary, secondary, prescription). If insured, include any Prior Authorization (PA) or appeal denial for Zortress. Medicare patients with limited income may qualify for free meds. Health plans or pharmacies cannot enroll you—only patients, guardians, or caregivers.[1][2][3][5] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit https://pap.novartis.com, enter Zortress, household size, and income to see if you qualify.[2][3][5] 2. **Download & Complete Forms**: Get the application from the site. Fill patient section (personal info, income, insurance, authorization). Your HCP completes their section, including prescription and medical details.[1][3][5] 3. **Gather Documents**: - Patient application.[program details] - HCP section with prescription.[1][3] - Income proof (e.g., 1040 first 2 pages, W-2, paystubs, 1099).[1][5][8] - Proof of U.S. residency.[program details] - Insurance cards (front/back); PA denials if applicable.[1][3] 4. **Submit**: Fax to 1-855-817-2711 or mail to NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 (or current address on form). Applications must be complete—missing info causes delays/denials.[1][2][3][5] 5. **Track Status**: Opt in for texts; expect a letter with next steps if incomplete.[2] Call 1-800-277-2254 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm ET) for help.[3][5][6] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing takes **about 4 weeks** from complete submission. You'll get a decision letter (approval/denial/next steps). If approved, Zortress ships free to your home or HCP's office.[2][program details][5] **Reauthorization**: Yes, required—reauth process similar; plan ahead as supplies are limited.[program details] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Review denial letter; resubmit missing docs or updated info.[2] - **Other Novartis Programs**: Check PANO (oncology) or co-pay help if insured.[9] - **State Assistance**: Look into state pharma aid or Extra Help (Medicare LIS)—submit denial proof if needed.[2] - **Generic/Biosimilars**: No biosimilars listed for Zortress; discuss alternatives with HCP.[program details] - **Non-Profits**: RxHope, Simplefill, or PAN Foundation may help.[9] - **Contact NPAF**: Call for guidance.[2][7] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on available program details as of general knowledge. Eligibility, income limits, and processes can change—**always verify at https://pap.novartis.com or call 1-800-277-2254**. NPAF reserves the right to modify/discontinue. Not medical/financial advice; consult your HCP/ advisor. Complete applications only—no guarantees of approval. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026