Zovirax

Indicated For

Herpes simplex virus (HSV), Herpes zoster virus (HZV), encephalitis

About This Medication

# GSK Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Zovirax (acyclovir) at Low or No Cost Zovirax (acyclovir) is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chickenpox. The **GSK Patient Assistance Program (PAP)**, operated by the independent GSK Patient Access Programs Foundation, provides eligible patients with certain GSK medicines like Zovirax at no cost if you meet income and insurance criteria.[1][2][7] This guide explains everything you need to know about qualifying for and applying to the program in simple terms. It's designed for patients facing financial challenges affording their prescriptions. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice. ## About Zovirax (Acyclovir) **Zovirax** is a brand-name prescription drug containing acyclovir, which stops the spread of herpes viruses in the body. It's available as oral tablets, capsules, suspension, topical cream, or ointment. Common uses include: - Treating initial and recurrent genital herpes outbreaks - Managing cold sores (herpes labialis) - Preventing shingles (herpes zoster) pain and complications - Treating chickenpox in children and adults It's not a cure but helps reduce symptoms, speed healing, and prevent outbreaks. Side effects may include nausea, headache, or diarrhea; serious ones like kidney issues are rare but require medical attention. Your doctor will determine the right dose based on your condition, age, and kidney function.[1][2] GSK manufactures Zovirax, and their PAP covers it for qualifying patients, delivering it free if approved.[1][7] ## Who Qualifies for the GSK PAP? To qualify, you must meet **all** these criteria: - Live in the United States, Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands (for certain meds) - Be treated by a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider - Have household income within program limits (see table below) - Be **uninsured** or have **Medicare** (and meet other rules—no private/commercial insurance for most meds) The program is for patients struggling to afford GSK medicines. It's charitable, not government or insurance-funded. Excludes vaccines in some cases, but Zovirax is a non-vaccine prescription.[2][5][7] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **household income** (before taxes) compared to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). GSK PAP typically covers incomes up to **400-500% of FPL**, but exact thresholds vary yearly and by household size—call 1-866-728-4368 to confirm current limits, as they're not always listed online.[2][5][7] Here's an example table based on 2026 FPL guidelines (approximate; verify with program): | Household Size | Max Income at 400% FPL | Max Income at 500% FPL | |---------------|-------------------------|-------------------------| | 1 | $60,320 | $75,400 | | 2 | $81,760 | $102,200 | | 3 | $103,200 | $129,000 | | 4 | $124,640 | $155,800 | | +1 person | +$21,440 | +$26,800 | *Add $21,440 (400%) or $26,800 (500%) per additional household member. Income includes wages, Social Security, etc. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs.*[2][5] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Fully eligible if other criteria met. - **Medicare**: Eligible (Parts A/B/D), but program checks for other coverage. - **Medicaid**: Usually ineligible. - **Private/Commercial Insurance**: Generally **not eligible**—program is for those without it. If insured, explore GSK's copay programs via GSKForYou.[1][2][7] The application authorizes GSK to contact your insurer to verify status.[5][7] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Coverage**: Confirm Zovirax is covered—call 1-866-728-4368 or visit gskforyou.com. Not all GSK meds qualify.[1][2] 2. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (tax return, W-2, pay stubs, SSI award letter) - Proof of residency (ID, utility bill) - Prescription from U.S. doctor - Insurance info (if any) - Doctor's signature on application[5][7] 3. **Get Application**: Download from gskforyou.com or gskpaf.org, or request by phone.[1][2][7] 4. **Complete Form**: Include patient info, household size/income, prescriber details, shipping address. Doctor completes medical section.[7] 5. **Submit**: - Mail: PO Box 220590, Charlotte, NC 28222-0590 - Fax: 1-855-474-3063 - Phone help: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm ET at 1-866-728-4368[7] 6. **Doctor Role**: Prescriber must register (if needed) and sign. They may ship vaccines, but Zovirax goes to patient.[5] Applications are free; no enrollment fee. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 2-4 weeks typically, but call for status.[2] - **Approval Notice**: Mailed or called; meds shipped if approved. - **Delivery**: Free to your U.S. address via mail (e.g., Walgreens for refills). Allow 7-10 days shipping.[1][8] - **Supply**: Often 3-12 months; refills via 1-866-728-4368 or website.[2][6] ## Refills and Reauthorization Approved patients get refills by calling 1-866-728-4368 or online (excludes some meds). Reauthorization needed yearly or when income/insurance changes—resubmit proof.[2][6] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **GSK Copay Savings**: For commercially insured via GSKForYou.[3] - **Generic Acyclovir**: Cheaper; ask doctor/pharmacist. - **Other PAPs**: NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or Simplefill (helps apply).[9] - **State Programs**: Check Medicaid or local assistance. - **Discount Cards**: GoodRx for uninsured. - **Together with GSK**: Insurance navigation.[10] If denied, appeal with updated info or reapply after 6 months.[2] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. Program details (income limits, covered meds) can change—**always verify directly with GSK PAP at 1-866-728-4368 or gskforyou.com**. Not medical/financial advice. Eligibility not guaranteed. GSK may share your info with providers/insurers for administration. Free meds can't be resold. Consult healthcare pros for treatment. 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Program information last verified: March 30, 2026