Actimmune

Indicated For

Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD), Malignant Osteopetrosis (MO)

About This Medication

# Horizon Therapeutics Actimmune Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Actimmune at Low or No Cost Actimmune (interferon gamma-1b) is a prescription medication used to treat serious conditions like **Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD)** and **Severe Malignant Osteopetrosis (SMO)**. Horizon Therapeutics offers a patient assistance program (PAP) to help eligible patients access **Actimmune** at little or no cost if they face financial hardship. This guide explains everything you need to know in simple terms. ## About Actimmune **Actimmune** is an injectable biologic medicine that works by boosting your immune system. It activates immune cells called macrophages and natural killer cells to fight infections and abnormal bone growth. It's given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, typically 3 times a week. Common uses include: - **Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD)**: A genetic disorder where white blood cells can't kill certain bacteria and fungi, leading to frequent infections. - **Severe Malignant Osteopetrosis (SMO)**: A rare bone disease causing overly dense bones, vision/hearing loss, and infections. **Important safety note**: Actimmune can cause flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, fatigue), injection site reactions, or more serious effects like liver issues. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report side effects. This is not medical advice—consult your healthcare provider. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? Horizon Therapeutics' PAP is designed for **uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients** who meet financial and medical criteria. Key eligibility factors include: - U.S. citizen or legal resident. - Prescription for Actimmune from a licensed doctor. - Financial need based on household income. - Limited or no prescription insurance coverage. The program does **not** require reauthorization for ongoing use, making it easier for long-term patients. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is typically based on **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** guidelines, often up to **400-500% of FPL**, though exact thresholds can vary yearly and by household size. Contact Horizon for current limits, as they are not publicly fixed. Here's a general example table based on 2026 FPL estimates (adjust for actuals): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (up to 400% FPL) | Example Monthly Income | |----------------|--------------------------------------|------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $60,000 | $5,000 | | 2 (Couple) | $81,000 | $6,750 | | 3 | $102,000 | $8,500 | | 4 | $123,000 | $10,250 | *Notes*: Add ~$21,000 per additional family member. Income includes wages, Social Security, etc. Assets may be reviewed. Call for precise 2026 thresholds. ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients** qualify most easily. - **Underinsured** (high copays, gaps) may get copay assistance or free meds if insurance denies coverage. - **Medicare/Medicaid**: Often ineligible for free drug, but copay programs may apply. Medicare Part D patients check Horizon's copay card. - Government insurance like VA/Tricare usually disqualifies you. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Talk to your doctor**: Confirm Actimmune is right for you. Ask them to complete the PAP form. 2. **Gather documents**: - Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s for all household). - Proof of residency (utility bill, lease). - Prescription and medical records. - Insurance cards/denial letter if applicable. 3. **Apply**: - **Online**: Visit Horizon's PAP website (search 'Horizon Therapeutics patient assistance'). - **Phone**: Call 1-888-357-8828 (typical support line; confirm current). - **Mail**: Download form from site, complete with doctor, and send. 4. **Submit**: Doctor signs off; patient provides financials. 5. **Wait for approval**: See timeline below. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing time**: 2-4 weeks from complete submission. - **Delivery**: Free medication shipped directly to your home or doctor's office via specialty pharmacy. - **Supply**: Up to 12 months per approval; no reauth needed. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Submit more docs or updated income. - **Copay savings card**: For commercially insured; up to $15,000/year coverage. - **Other PAPs**: NeedyMeds.org or RxAssist.org for generics/biosimilars (none currently for Actimmune). - **State programs**: Check your state's drug assistance. - **Manufacturer contact**: Call Horizon for case-by-case help. - **Biosimilars**: No FDA-approved alternatives yet. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on general knowledge of pharmaceutical assistance programs as of 2026. Program details like income limits, phone numbers, and URLs change—**always verify directly with Horizon Therapeutics**. Not a substitute for professional medical or financial advice. Eligibility not guaranteed. Horizon may update terms without notice. Word count: 950.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026