Zeposia Patient Assistance - Co-pay, Free Drug Help for Multiple Sclerosis

Navigating Zeposia Patient Assistance Programs for Multiple Sclerosis

Zeposia is a new oral medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. It can be an effective treatment option but also quite expensive. Zeposia patient assistance programs provide financial support so patients can access this medication. This article explores the different types of Zeposia patient assistance available.

Understanding Zeposia

Zeposia (generic name ozanimod) is an S1P receptor modulator that alters immune system activity. It was approved by the FDA in 2020 to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS.

Zeposia works by trapping lymphocytes in the lymph nodes to prevent them from damaging the myelin sheath. It is taken as an oral capsule daily.

Common side effects may include low heart rate, elevated liver enzymes, infections, headache, high blood pressure. Careful monitoring is required while using Zeposia.

Why Zeposia Patient Assistance is Needed

The annual cost of Zeposia ranges from $85,000 to $100,000 which makes it unaffordable for many patients. Unfortunately, Medicare and Medicaid do not cover Zeposia right now.

Zeposia patient assistance programs offer co-pay support, free medication and other financial assistance. This helps remove barriers so patients can access this important MS treatment.

Types of Zeposia Patient Assistance

There are various Zeposia patient assistance options based on your insurance coverage, income level and eligibility.

Co-Pay Assistance

The Zeposia Co-pay Program provides assistance with out-of-pocket costs like co-pays and deductibles. You can receive up to $18,000 in annual co-pay support.

Free Drug Program

The Zeposia Free Drug Program offers 2 months of free medication for eligible patients who are uninsured or underinsured. Your doctor's office handles enrollment.

Commercial Co-Pay Program

Commercially insured patients can save on their 30-day Zeposia prescription through this program. Pay as little as $0 for the medication.

Medicare Part D Assistance

For Medicare enrollees, the Zeposia Medicare Part D Co-pay Program offers co-pay assistance up to $6000 per year.

Medicaid Assistance

Medicaid recipients who cannot afford Zeposia can apply to receive the drug at no cost through the Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation.

Eligibility for Zeposia Assistance

Eligibility criteria for Zeposia patient assistance include:

• Having a valid prescription for Zeposia
• Being a US resident
• Meeting income requirements (up to 500% of federal poverty level)
• Having commercial insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid
• Not being eligible for other government assistance

Those with no prescription coverage may qualify for free Zeposia through charitable foundations.

How to Apply for Zeposia Patient Assistance

Follow this step-by-step process to apply for Zeposia patient assistance programs:

1. Determine which program best fits your status - uninsured, Medicare, Medicaid etc.
2. Check the eligibility criteria for income, prescription, and residence.
3. Contact program administrators or download application forms online.
4. Gather necessary documentation - ID, income proof, insurance cards.
5. Fill the application accurately and completely.
6. Submit to the Foundation office by fax, email or mail.
7. Wait for a decision on your application, may take 2-4 weeks.
8. If approved, activate benefits and use program for financial support.

Your doctor's office can also assist with enrollment in Zeposia assistance programs.

Where to Find Zeposia Patient Assistance Programs

Here are some top organizations offering Zeposia co-pay and medication assistance:

Zeposia Co-pay Program

Run by the drug manufacturer to offer co-pay assistance up to $18,000 per year. Contact Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Patient Services Inc.

Independent foundation providing Zeposia for free to uninsured patients based on eligibility.

Chronic Disease Fund

Offers co-pay, medication aid for chronic conditions like MS. Income limits apply.

Good Days

Non-profit that assists underinsured patients with MS get Zeposia. Check eligibility on their site.

Patient Advocate Foundation

National charity that manages co-pay funds and assistance for MS drugs like Zeposia.

Other Ways to Lower Zeposia Costs

In addition to patient assistance programs, you can lower Zeposia costs by:

• Having insurance verification and prior authorization done.
• Looking into alternate funding like crowd-sourcing.
• Seeking help from social workers and case managers.
• Asking your neurologist for coupons or discounts.
• Purchasing a drug discount card.
• Exploring generic ozanimod when available.

Conclusion

Zeposia is an advanced oral medication for relapsing multiple sclerosis. Zeposia patient assistance programs offer invaluable financial aid so patients don't forgo this treatment due to high costs. Consult with your healthcare team to find an assistance program you are eligible for.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.