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Affordability Check

How to afford EPOGEN

Generic name: epoetin alfa

Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get EPOGEN — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.

How are you covered for prescriptions?

Pick the one that fits you. We'll show you the cheapest way to get this drug.

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 EPOGEN and its cost

What is this medication? Epogen is an injectable medication used to treat anemia, which is a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. It contains epoetin alfa, a synthetic version of a hormone naturally produced by the kidneys called erythropoietin. This drug is primarily prescribed for patients with chronic kidney disease, whether or not they are on dialysis, and for individuals undergoing chemotherapy for certain types of cancer. By stimulating the bone marrow to create more red blood cells, Epogen helps manage fatigue and reduces the necessity for frequent blood transfusions.

This medication is also utilized in specific medical situations, such as for HIV-infected patients taking zidovudine or for individuals scheduled for major elective surgeries to minimize the need for donor blood. It is important to understand that Epogen is not meant for the immediate correction of severe anemia that requires an emergency transfusion. Additionally, it is not used to treat anemia resulting from iron or vitamin deficiencies. Doctors carefully monitor blood levels during treatment to ensure the medication is effectively and safely increasing red blood cell production.

EPOGEN is made by Amgen. 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 EPOGEN?

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 EPOGEN?

No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Amgen has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.

Does my Medicare Part D plan cover EPOGEN?

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 Kidney Disease?

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 EPOGEN