Amitiza

Indicated For

IBS-C, CIC, OIC

About This Medication

# Takeda Help At Hand Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Amitiza (lubiprostone) at Low or No Cost This guide explains how uninsured or underinsured patients can access **Amitiza (lubiprostone)** for free through Takeda's **Help At Hand Patient Assistance Program**. It covers eligibility, application steps, and key details to help you get started. ## About Amitiza (lubiprostone) **Amitiza** is a prescription medication used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adults and women with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). It works by increasing fluid secretion in the intestines to ease bowel movements. Always follow your doctor's instructions for use, as it may cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, or headache. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.[1][4] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The **Takeda Help At Hand Patient Assistance Program** provides free Takeda medications, including Amitiza, to eligible patients. To qualify, you must meet **all** these criteria: - Be prescribed a Takeda medicine like Amitiza by a U.S.-licensed physician practicing in the U.S. or its territories.[1][5] - Reside in the United States.[1] - Have no health coverage or insufficient coverage to obtain your medication (uninsured or underinsured).[1][3][4] - Meet income guidelines, typically up to **400-500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, reviewed case-by-case.[5] **Special note for Medicare patients**: If your income is below 150% FPL, you must apply for and be denied Medicare Part D Extra Help first (include denial letter). Above 150% FPL, no denial letter needed.[5] All applications are reviewed individually based on program criteria.[1][5] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are based on household size and **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** percentages. The program typically covers up to **400-500% FPL** for uninsured/underinsured patients, but exact thresholds vary by household size and are assessed case-by-case. Use the table below as a guide (2026 FPL estimates; check current FPL at aspe.hhs.gov/poverty-guidelines for precision). | Household Size | 400% FPL (Approx. Annual Income) | 500% FPL (Approx. Annual Income) | |----------------|---------------------------------|---------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $60,000 | $75,000 | | 2 (Couple) | $81,000 | $101,250 | | 3 | $102,000 | $127,500 | | 4 | $122,400 | $153,000 | *Notes*: Add ~$20,400 per person at 400% FPL beyond 4 members. Provide proof of total household income. Program confirms eligibility individually.[1][5] ## Insurance Requirements The program targets **uninsured or underinsured** patients whose coverage does not adequately cover Amitiza. Fully insured patients or those with sufficient coverage do not qualify. Disclose all insurance details; include proof of status. Medicare patients follow Extra Help rules above.[1][3][4][5] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Review criteria on helpathandpap.com or call **1-800-830-9159** (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET).[1][2][8] 2. **Download or Request Form**: Get the application PDF from helpathandpap.com or call **1-800-830-9159** to have it mailed/faxed.[1][2] 3. **Complete Patient Sections**: Fill Sections 1, 2, 5, 6 (patient info, income, signatures). Attach **proof of income** (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs, IRS Form 4506T if needed).[1][9] 4. **Healthcare Provider Completes Sections 3 & 4**: Doctor provides prescription (original mailed if required), signs (no stamps), and details.[1][9] 5. **Gather Required Documents**: - Valid prescription for Amitiza. - Proof of income for household. - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill). - Proof of insurance status (or lack thereof); Medicare denial if applicable.[1][5][9] 6. **Submit**: Fax from provider to **1-800-497-0928** or mail to **Takeda Patient Assistance Program, P.O. Box 5727, Louisville, KY 40255-0727**.[1][2][6] **Tip**: Use the checklist to avoid delays from incomplete apps.[2][9] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Review Time**: 3-5 business days (some sources say 5-7 days); complete apps process faster.[1][2][6] - **Notification**: Letter to you/provider on approval/denial.[1][2] - **If Approved**: Medication shipped **directly to your home** free of charge. Reauthorization may be needed periodically.[1][2] - **Processing Overall**: Expect 2-4 weeks total including shipping.[1] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Call **1-800-830-9159** to start appeal process.[6] - **Reapply**: After 90 days from denial.[6] - **Other Options**: Check Medicare Extra Help (medicare.gov/extrahelp), state programs, or generic alternatives (none listed as biosimilars for Amitiza). Co-pay programs via Takeda Patient Support for insured patients.[5][7] - **RxHope or NeedyMeds**: Search for additional PAPs. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available program details as of 2026. Eligibility, rules, and income limits can change; always verify with Takeda at **1-800-830-9159** or helpathandpap.com. Not medical/financial advice—consult your doctor and advisor. Takeda reviews case-by-case; approval not guaranteed.[1][5][6]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026