Boehringer Ingelheim will end the co-pay assistance program for the HIV antiretroviral Viramune XR (nevirapine) at the end of June. According to Susan Holz, a spokesperson for the pharmaceutical company, the program that assists with the cost of co-pays for the medicine is being discontinued because a generic version of the drug is available. The cancelation does not affect the brand name drug’s patient assistance program, however.

In an emailed statement, Holz wrote, “Boehringer Ingelheim works hard to ensure its medicines are accessible to everyone who needs them, including senior citizens and families on limited incomes. The Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation Patient Assistance Program continues to make Viramune available free of charge to patients who are without pharmaceutical insurance coverage, and who meet certain household income levels and other eligibility requirements.” 

For more information about the Patient Assistance Program, go to bipatientassistance.com or call 1-800-556-8317, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time.