Zykadia

Indicated For

ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) Patient Guide: How to Get Zykadia (ceritinib) at Low or No Cost Zykadia (ceritinib) is a targeted therapy medication used to treat adults with **anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)** that has progressed after or been intolerant to prior ALK inhibitor therapy. The **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** offers Zykadia at no cost to eligible uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients who meet specific income and residency guidelines.[1][4][6] ## About Zykadia (ceritinib) **Zykadia** is an oral kinase inhibitor that specifically targets ALK-positive proteins in cancer cells, helping to slow or stop the growth of tumors in patients with advanced lung cancer. It's typically taken once daily on an empty stomach, with common side effects including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, and blood sugar changes—your doctor will monitor these closely. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions, as this guide focuses only on access, not medical advice.[1][6] This program is vital for patients facing high out-of-pocket costs, as Zykadia can be expensive without assistance. NPAF provides free medication for up to one year, with potential reapplication.[1][4] ## Who Qualifies for NPAF? To qualify, you must: - Reside in the **United States or a U.S. Territory**.[1][4] - Be treated on an **outpatient basis** by a licensed U.S. healthcare provider.[1] - Have **limited or no prescription insurance coverage** (uninsured or unable to afford after insurance; certain restrictions apply if insured).[1][4][5] - Meet **income guidelines** specific to Zykadia (varies by household size; Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits).[1][6] - Have a **valid prescription** for Zykadia.[4] Patients with Medicare or other insurance may qualify if they lack adequate coverage or face high costs, but proof like Extra Help denial or prior authorization outcomes may be needed.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown NPAF uses **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** guidelines tailored to Zykadia, requiring proof via the first two pages of your most recent **1040 tax return** (or contact NPAF if not required to file). Exact thresholds aren't publicly listed without checking the site but are household-size based. Visit **https://pap.novartis.com** for your personalized Zykadia grid and current limits.[1][2][6] | Household Size | Example Max Annual Income (400% FPL, illustrative)* | Notes | |---------------|-----------------------------------------------------|-------| | 1 | ~$60,000 | Varies by product; check site[6] | | 2 | ~$81,000 | Alaska/HI higher[1] | | 3 | ~$102,000 | Submit tax pages[2] | | 4 | ~$123,000 | *Illustrative; confirm online[6] | *These are estimates based on typical PAP FPL (e.g., 400-500%); log in at pap.novartis.com for exact Zykadia requirements as of your application date.[6] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients** are ideal candidates.[4][5] - **Insured patients** may qualify if insurance doesn't cover Zykadia adequately, but submit **front/back copies of all insurance cards** (primary, secondary, Rx).[2] - If prior authorization (PA) is required, include **PA approval/denial or appeal outcome**.[2][3] - **Not eligible** if insurance has alternate funding restrictions or full coverage available.[1] - Medicare patients: Often eligible if no/low Rx coverage; provide Extra Help denial if applicable.[1][3] Include all insurance details to avoid denial—transparency is key.[2][8] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Go to **https://pap.novartis.com**, select Zykadia, and enter household size/income for instant check.[1][8] 2. **Gather Documents**: - Patient application section (personal info, income proof: first 2 pages of 1040 tax return).[2] - Healthcare provider (HCP) application/prescription section.[3][4] - Insurance cards (front/back), PA denials if applicable.[2][3] 3. **Complete Forms**: Download from site or start online. Patient signs authorization; HCP completes/signs Rx and prescriber sections.[2][4] 4. **Submit**: **Online** preferred via https://pap.novartis.com, or fax to **1-855-817-2711** (from HCP office if faxing) or mail to **NPAF, PO Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029** (or PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 per some forms).[1][2][5][8] 5. **Follow Up**: Opt in for texts; incomplete apps get a letter with next steps.[1] Call **1-800-277-2254** for help.[3][8] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Up to **4 weeks** for decision letter.[1][8] - If approved, medication ships directly to your doctor's office or pharmacy for pickup/delivery (details in approval letter).[1] - Track via patient portal if registered online.[1] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Reapply** with complete info or updated documents.[1] - Explore **Novartis Oncology programs** or other PAPs via rxassist.org.[7][9] - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or **CancerCare** co-pay help.[7] - **State programs**, **generic alternatives** (if available; no biosimilars noted), or **manufacturer copay cards** (check novartis.com).[9] - Contact NPAF for guidance on other Novartis supports.[8] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available NPAF details as of latest updates. Eligibility, guidelines, and processes can change—**always verify at https://pap.novartis.com**. Not medical/financial advice; consult your doctor or advisor. NPAF decisions are final; free meds don't guarantee treatment suitability. Novartis disclaims liability for application outcomes.[1][4]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026