Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2001. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
PRNewswire - November 6, 2001
"Geodon can give many people living with schizophrenia a new lease on life," Secretary Houstoun said. "Geodon has fewer side effects than other anti-psychotic medicines. And of particular importance to some patients, Geodon causes little to no weight gain. DPW is hopeful that patients will find Geodon easier to take and, therefore, will achieve a better quality of life."
Geodon helps manage schizophrenia's symptoms including visual and auditory hallucinations, delusions, thought disturbances, social withdrawal, apathy and lack of motivation.
With today's announcement, the SPBP now covers five anti-psychotic medications for the treatment of schizophrenia through a state appropriation for low- and moderate-income individuals: Clozaril (clozapine), Geodon, Risperdal (risperidone), Seroquel (quetiapine) and Zyprexa (olanzapine). The program serves more than 2,500 mental-health clients statewide.
The SPBP, which began in 1987 as an HIV/AIDS drug program, expanded in 1993 to include a second client group and formulary for individuals suffering from schizophrenia. These drugs have the potential to help clients maintain the best quality of life possible so they can remain in their homes and communities, and can avoid having to rely on further public assistance.
In addition to paying for five anti-psychotic medications, the SPBP helps pay for 67 HIV/AIDS drugs through state and federal Ryan White Care Act funds.
After the Federal Drug Administration approves a drug for the treatment of HIV, AIDS or schizophrenia, the Department of Public Welfare conducts a comprehensive review before adding a drug to its list of approved medications.
To be eligible, individuals must reside in Pennsylvania, but not in an institution; have an individual gross income of less than $30,000 with an additional allowance of $2,480 for each additional family member; and have a medical need for the drug.
Applications are available from county assistance offices, county mental-health and mental-retardation agencies, hospital social-service departments, state health centers, hemophilia and renal dialysis centers, some physician offices, pharmacies, and through community HIV/AIDS services agencies.
For more information about the SPBP or an application, call toll-free at 1-800-922-9384; write to the Department of Public Welfare, Special Pharmaceutical Benefits Program, P.O. Box 8021, Harrisburg, PA 17105; or visit DPW through the PA PowerPort at http://www.state.pa.us or directly at http://www.dpw.state.pa.us.
CONTACT: Jay Pagni of the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare, +1-717-787-4592.
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