Affordability Check
How to afford Daraprim
Generic name: pyrimethamine
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get Daraprim — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.
Pick an option above to see your specific path.
Different insurance means different laws and different savings. For example, Medicare patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards (federal law) — but the manufacturer almost always has a Patient Assistance Program that gives the drug free.
About Daraprim and its cost
What is this medication? Daraprim, also known by its generic name pyrimethamine, is a prescription antiparasitic medication primarily used to treat toxoplasmosis. This condition is an infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can lead to serious health complications in the brain, eyes, or other organs. It is particularly important for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV or AIDS, and for treating infants who were infected before birth. The medication works by inhibiting the parasite’s ability to use folic acid, which is necessary for it to reproduce and survive.
In addition to its use for toxoplasmosis, Daraprim is sometimes utilized to treat or prevent malaria, though it is less common for this purpose today due to drug resistance in many parts of the world. It is typically prescribed in combination with a sulfonamide antibiotic to maximize its effectiveness against the infection. Because the drug interferes with folic acid metabolism, healthcare providers often prescribe a specific form of vitamin B called leucovorin to help protect the patient's own blood cells and minimize potential side effects during the course of treatment.
Daraprim is made by Vyera. Like most brand-name drugs, it's priced at a high list price — but patients rarely pay that list price. The options above are the real paths most people use to get it affordably.
Common questions
What's the cheapest way to afford Daraprim?
It depends on your insurance. On Medicare, apply for the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program (PAP) — it gives the drug free if you meet income requirements. With private insurance, the manufacturer copay card usually drops your copay to $0-$25. Uninsured patients should compare the PAP with Cost Plus Drugs cash price.
Can I use a copay card with Medicare for Daraprim?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Vyera has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover Daraprim?
Part D coverage varies by plan. We query the CMS Prescription Drug Plan file to show you what percentage of plans cover it and at what tier. For your exact copay, pick "Medicare" above and check your plan's Summary of Benefits, or log in to Medicare.gov.
How long does a Patient Assistance Program take?
Most PAPs take 2-6 weeks from application to first fill. Ask the manufacturer about a "bridge supply" — many will ship 30 days free while your application is being reviewed so you don't go without the drug.
What if I have a high-deductible plan?
For generics, Cost Plus Drugs cash price is often cheaper than your deductible-phase copay. For brand names, the manufacturer copay card almost always wins. A GoodRx coupon can be a last resort for uncovered drugs, but it doesn't count toward your deductible.
Are there charity grants for Toxoplasmosis?
Charities like HealthWell Foundation, PAN Foundation, Good Days, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders provide copay help for specific conditions. Funds often run out mid-year — apply early. We list the specific grants for your condition in the options above.
More about Daraprim
Full Daraprim drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Toxoplasmosis
Drugs, grants, and assistance for this condition
Guide to Patient Assistance Programs
How PAPs work, who qualifies, typical wait times
If your insurance denied coverage
5-level appeal playbook — Medicare has a 60% win rate at Level 3