Amitiza

Indicated For

Chronic Idiopathic Constipation, Opioid-Induced Constipation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation

About This Medication

# Mallinckrodt Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Amitiza at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The Mallinckrodt Patient Assistance Program helps eligible patients access **Amitiza (lubiprostone)** at little to no cost. If you've been prescribed Amitiza to treat chronic idiopathic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, or opioid-induced constipation, but are struggling to afford your medication, this program may be able to help. ## What is Amitiza? Amitiza is a prescription medication that works by activating chloride channels in your intestines, helping to increase fluid secretion and promote bowel movements. It's used to treat three main conditions: - **Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)** — long-term constipation without a known cause - **Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)** — constipation associated with IBS - **Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC)** — constipation caused by opioid pain medications Your doctor has determined that Amitiza is the right medication for your condition. ## Who Qualifies? You may be eligible for the Mallinckrodt Patient Assistance Program if you meet ALL of these criteria: 1. **You have a valid prescription** for Amitiza from a licensed healthcare provider 2. **You are uninsured or underinsured** — meaning you have no insurance, limited coverage, or your insurance doesn't cover Amitiza 3. **Your household income is at or below the income limit** for your household size (see table below) 4. **You are a U.S. resident** — proof of residency is required ### Income Eligibility Table The income threshold starts at **$40,000 for individuals**, but varies based on household size. Here's what you need to know: | Household Size | Maximum Annual Income | |---|---| | 1 person | $40,000 | | 2 people | ~$54,000 | | 3 people | ~$68,000 | | 4 people | ~$82,000 | | 5+ people | Higher thresholds apply | *Note: Income limits may vary and are subject to change. Contact the program directly for your household size's current limit.* ## Insurance Requirements This program is designed for: - **Completely uninsured patients** — those with no health insurance at all - **Underinsured patients** — those whose insurance doesn't cover Amitiza, or where copays are unaffordable If you have insurance that covers Amitiza, you may want to explore other options like manufacturer savings cards or negotiating copays with your insurer before applying to this program. ## Step-by-Step Application Instructions Applying for assistance is straightforward. Here's how: ### Step 1: Gather Your Documents Before you start, collect the following: - **Valid prescription** — a written or electronic prescription from your doctor for Amitiza - **Proof of income** — recent tax return, W-2, pay stub, or Social Security statement - **Proof of residency** — utility bill, lease agreement, or government-issued ID showing your current address - **Insurance information** — details about any current health insurance (or confirmation you're uninsured) ### Step 2: Choose Your Application Method The Mallinckrodt Patient Assistance Program accepts applications through **multiple methods**: - **Online application** — Visit the manufacturer website and complete the digital form - **Mail** — Print the application form and mail it with your documents - **With your healthcare provider** — Your doctor's office can submit the application on your behalf - **Phone assistance** — Call to speak with a program representative who can guide you through the process ### Step 3: Complete the Application Provide accurate information about: - Your personal details (name, address, date of birth) - Your household composition and income - Your current insurance status - Your prescription and medical condition - Your residency status ### Step 4: Submit Your Application Include all required documents with your application. Incomplete applications may be delayed, so double-check that you have everything before submitting. ### Step 5: Wait for a Decision See the timeline section below for processing information. ## Application Timeline & Medication Delivery **Processing Time:** Most applications are reviewed and processed within **2-4 weeks**. **Delivery:** Once approved, your Amitiza will be: - **Shipped directly to you** at your home address, OR - **Sent to your physician's office** for pickup You can usually specify your preference on the application. **Important:** During the waiting period, ask your doctor if there are samples available or if you can delay starting the medication. If you're already on Amitiza and this is a refill, discuss a temporary supply with your pharmacy. ## Annual Reauthorization This program **requires annual reauthorization**. Here's what that means: - Your approval is valid for **12 months** - Before your approval expires, you'll need to reapply - The program will notify you when it's time to renew - The reauthorization process is similar to the initial application - Keep your approval letter for your records so you know when to reapply ## Other Ways to Save on Amitiza ### Manufacturer Savings Card Mallinckrodt offers a **savings card for Amitiza**. This card can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs even if you have insurance. Check the manufacturer website for details and eligibility. ### If Your Application is Denied If you don't qualify for the patient assistance program, you have other options: - **Discuss with your doctor** — Ask if there are less expensive alternative medications - **Contact your insurance company** — Request an exception or appeal if your plan doesn't cover Amitiza - **Use GoodRx or similar discount programs** — These can sometimes offer lower prices - **Ask about generic options** — Lubiprostone (the generic version of Amitiza) may be available at lower cost - **Visit NeedyMeds.org** — This nonprofit database lists additional patient assistance programs and resources ## Frequently Asked Questions See the FAQ section below for answers to common questions about the application process, insurance, reauthorization, and more. ## Important Legal Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for official program information. Income limits, eligibility requirements, and program details may change at any time. For the most current and accurate information, please contact the Mallinckrodt Patient Assistance Program directly through their official channels. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your treatment options and medication access. This guide does not constitute legal, medical, or financial advice. --- **Ready to Apply?** Gather your documents and visit the Mallinckrodt website or contact the program for application instructions. If you need help, don't hesitate to ask your doctor's office — many are familiar with patient assistance programs and can assist with the application.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026