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Affordability Check

How to afford IRESSA

Generic name: Gefitinib

Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get IRESSA — 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 IRESSA and its cost

What is this medication? Iressa, which is the brand name for the generic drug gefitinib, is a prescription medication primarily used as a first-line treatment for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. It is specifically indicated for adults whose tumors have certain types of abnormal epidermal growth factor receptor genes, such as exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitution mutations. These genetic markers must be confirmed by a healthcare professional using an approved diagnostic test before the treatment begins to ensure the medication is appropriate for the patient.

The drug belongs to a class of medicines known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It works by attaching itself to the epidermal growth factor receptor protein found on the surface of some cancer cells, which effectively blocks the signals that tell the cells to grow and multiply. By inhibiting these specific pathways, the medication can help slow the progression of the disease and shrink existing tumors. It is typically taken as an oral tablet once a day, following the specific dosing instructions provided by a physician.

IRESSA is made by a pharmaceutical manufacturer. 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 IRESSA?

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 IRESSA?

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

Does my Medicare Part D plan cover IRESSA?

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 Cancer?

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 IRESSA