How to Get Help Paying for Effexor

Effexor is a commonly prescribed antidepressant. Doctors sometimes prescribe it for anxiety disorders, as well. Effexor is a type of medication known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and it tends to have fewer side effects than some other antidepressant drugs, including tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Unfortunately, it's an expensive medication. Some patients have difficulty affording their prescriptions, especially if they do not have health insurance that helps cover the cost.

Things You'll Need

• Application for Medicaid
• Application for Pfizer patient assistance program
• Proof of income

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply for Medicaid if you meet the eligibility criteria in your state. The criteria vary somewhat from state to state, but elderly people, disabled people and children with low incomes generally qualify. Some other people may qualify in some states. Visit the agency that administers Medicaid in your county; the name of the agency varies from state to state. You'll need to provide proof of income when you apply.

• 2

  Apply for the patient assistance program offered by Pfizer, the company that makes Effexor. Download an application from the PfizerPro website and complete it. Your physician must also complete a portion of the application, verifying that you need to take Effexor. Provide proof of income and any health care insurance coverage you have.

• 3

  Ask your doctor about other programs in your area that may help you pay for Effexor. Programs vary from area to area. You can also call the local United Way office and ask if they can refer you to any local organizations that help pay for medications.