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Affordability Check

How to afford VELCADE

Generic name: bortezomib

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

What is this medication? Velcade, which is the brand name for the generic drug bortezomib, is a prescription medication primarily used in the treatment of specific types of cancer. It is most frequently indicated for adults diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer that affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow. It is also used to treat patients with mantle cell lymphoma, which is an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, particularly in cases where the patient has already undergone at least one other type of treatment.

The medication functions as a proteasome inhibitor, meaning it targets and blocks the activity of enzyme complexes called proteasomes within cells. These proteasomes are responsible for breaking down proteins that the cell no longer needs. By interfering with this process, Velcade causes a buildup of proteins that triggers the death of cancer cells. The drug is typically administered as an injection by a healthcare professional, either into a vein or under the skin, according to a specific treatment schedule determined by a physician.

VELCADE is made by Takeda. 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 VELCADE?

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 VELCADE?

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

Does my Medicare Part D plan cover VELCADE?

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 Lymphoma?

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 VELCADE