PAPs: Patient Assistance Programs That Lower Drug Costs

When you need a prescription but can’t afford it, PAPs, Patient Assistance Programs are free or low-cost drug support systems run by pharmaceutical companies, nonprofits, or government agencies. Also known as drug assistance programs, they’re designed to get essential medicines into the hands of people who can’t pay full price—no insurance, low income, or high deductibles don’t disqualify you. These aren’t charity handouts; they’re structured, verified programs that follow strict eligibility rules and often cover brand-name and generic drugs alike.

PAPs relate directly to generic medications, lower-cost versions of brand-name drugs approved by the FDA as equally safe and effective. While generics cut costs by up to 85%, some people still struggle to pay even $10 a month. That’s where PAPs step in—they fill the gap when generics aren’t enough, or when a drug doesn’t have a generic version yet. They also connect to medication access, the ability to get the right drugs at the right time without financial barriers. You’ll find PAPs mentioned in posts about 90-day fills, pharmacy sourcing, and how pharmacists help with workplace wellness—because saving money on meds isn’t just about coupons, it’s about survival.

Many of the drugs covered by PAPs show up in our posts: antidepressants like dosulepin, diabetes meds like SGLT2 inhibitors, biologics for autoimmune conditions, and even opioids used long-term. If a medication has serious side effects or requires careful monitoring, chances are there’s a PAP that helps patients stay on it. You don’t need to be homeless or unemployed to qualify—many programs accept people with jobs but no drug coverage, or those whose insurance denies a specific drug. Some require proof of income, others just a doctor’s note. The process isn’t always simple, but it’s doable. And it’s not just for the U.S.—global programs exist too, though they vary by country.

Below, you’ll find real stories and practical guides on how to navigate these systems. From how to apply for a PAP without getting lost in paperwork, to which drugs are most commonly covered, to how pharmacists help patients enroll—this collection gives you the tools to act, not just wait. No fluff. No jargon. Just what you need to get the meds you’re prescribed without going broke.