See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vascepa

Your doctor can help you manage Vascepa costs in several ways. First, they can prescribe a therapeutically equivalent alternative if one is available [1]. While Vascepa is currently the only FDA-approved drug with ethyl eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) as its active ingredient, your doctor may consider prescribing other medications with similar therapeutic effects.

Second, your doctor can help you navigate patient assistance programs (PAPs) and manufacturer discounts. For instance, Vascepa's manufacturer, Amarin Pharma Inc., offers a patient support program called Amarin Advantage [2]. This program provides eligible patients with Vascepa at no cost. Your doctor can guide you through the application process and help you determine your eligibility.

Additionally, your doctor can write a prescription for a 90-day supply of Vascepa instead of a 30-day supply, which may help reduce the number of copayments you make in a year [3]. This approach can be particularly helpful if you have a high-deductible health plan or a high copay.

Lastly, your doctor can advocate for you by communicating with your insurance company about the medical necessity of Vascepa. If your insurance company denies coverage for Vascepa, your doctor can file an appeal on your behalf [4].

In summary, your doctor can assist with Vascepa costs by:

1. Prescribing therapeutically equivalent alternatives, if available.
2. Guiding you through patient assistance programs and manufacturer discounts.
3. Writing prescriptions for longer durations to reduce the number of copayments.
4. Advocating for you by communicating with your insurance company about the medical necessity of Vascepa.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com, "Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) - Patent Expiration & Drug Safety", 2022. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/vascepa>
[2] Amarin Pharma Inc., "Amarin Advantage", 2022. <https://www.amarincorp.com/our-products/vascepa/amarin-advantage>
[3] Consumer Reports, "How to Save on Prescription Drugs", 2021. <https://www.consumerreports.org/drugs/how-to-save-on-prescription-drugs/>
[4] Verywell Health, "How to Appeal a Health Insurance Company's Decision", 2021. <https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-appeal-a-health-insurance-companys-decision-1738831>