Azedra

Indicated For

pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma

About This Medication

# Azedra (iobenguane I-131) Patient Guide: How to Get Azedra at Low or No Cost **Important Notice: Azedra production has ceased.** Lantheus, the manufacturer, stopped producing Azedra after the first quarter of 2024, though they aimed to supply existing patients to complete regimens.[7] This guide provides general information on past assistance options and alternatives, but new patients should consult their doctor for current treatments. No specific patient assistance program (PAP) details are available from provided sources, as Azedra is no longer actively distributed.[7] ## About Azedra (iobenguane I-131) Azedra is a **radiopharmaceutical medication** used to treat **iobenguane scan-positive, unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma** in adults and children 12 years and older who need systemic anticancer therapy.[1][2][5][9] These are rare tumors of the adrenal glands or related nerves that can be life-threatening.[2] It works by mimicking norepinephrine, a natural neurotransmitter, which allows it to target and accumulate in cancer cells in adrenal tissues. The attached radioactive iodine (I-131) then emits radiation to kill those cells.[2] Azedra is given intravenously (IV) in a specific regimen: one **dosimetric dose** (for imaging) followed by **two therapeutic doses** 90 days apart.[5][8][9] Each therapeutic dose is weight-based, up to 500 mCi for patients over 62.5 kg.[3] **Key precautions:** It's radioactive, so patients and caregivers must follow strict **radiation safety rules**, like limiting close contact and staying hydrated (2 liters of fluid daily for 7 days post-dose). Thyroid protection with potassium iodide (KI) starts 24 hours before and continues 10 days after each dose to block radioactive iodine uptake.[2] Women must have a negative pregnancy test before treatment.[9] Note: One source states it's "no longer being used," likely due to discontinuation.[2] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? No specific PAP named for Azedra in sources, and with production halted, formal programs may not exist.[7] Historically, patients with **rare diseases** like pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma (PPGL) could access manufacturer support, government aid (e.g., Medicaid), or specialty pharmacy help. Lantheus offered a contact line: **1-844-AZEDRA1 (1-844-293-3721)**, Mon-Fri 8am-5pm ET, or email info@azedra.com for info.[7] **General eligibility for similar PAPs:** U.S. residents with prescriptions, meeting medical criteria (e.g., positive MIBG scan, age 12+).[1][3] Insurance often requires **prior authorization (PA)** confirming FDA indication, no progression on prior therapy, adequate blood counts (platelets >80,000/mcL, neutrophils >1,200/mcL).[1][3][5] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown No specific income thresholds found for Azedra PAP. Many PAPs use **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, e.g., 400-500% FPL. Since unavailable, here's a general U.S. 2026 FPL table for context (adjust for state/HHS updates): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 400% FPL | 500% FPL | |----------------|----------|----------|----------| | 1 (Individual) | $15,060 | $60,240 | $75,300 | | 2 (Couple) | $20,440 | $81,760 | $102,200| | 3 | $25,820 | $103,280| $129,100| | 4 | $31,200 | $124,800| $156,000| *Notes:* Add ~$5,380 per extra person. Programs vary; some exclude Medicare Part D but cover gaps.[7] Contact Lantheus or PAN Foundation for rare disease aid. ## Insurance Requirements Azedra typically needs **prior authorization** from insurers like Moda, Molina, or Blue Cross.[1][3][4][5] Coverage for **one course (3 doses over 6-12 months)** if FDA criteria met.[4][5] Medicaid covers via HCPCS A9699/A4641.[8] Medicare may require PA; no PAP details, but specialty drugs often have copay assistance. If uninsured/underinsured, explore manufacturer support (pre-2024).[7] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get Prescribed:** Doctor confirms diagnosis (positive iobenguane scan, unresectable PPGL).[1][9] 2. **Check Insurance:** Submit PA with labs, scans.[1][3] 3. **Contact Support:** Call **1-844-293-3721** or email for legacy assistance.[7] 4. **Gather Docs:** Proof of income, residency, insurance denial (if needed), ID.[General PAP standard] 5. **Apply Online/Phone:** No specific URL; use manufacturer line.[7] 6. **Approval Wait:** Varies; insurers 1-2 weeks.[4] 7. **Receive:** Shipped to provider for IV admin in controlled setting due to radiation.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery **Processing:** PA 1-14 days; full course spans 6 months (doses 90 days apart).[5] No PAP timeline specified. **Delivery:** Single-dose vials to authorized facilities (not home).[8] Administered IV; post-dose isolation/quarantine per radiation safety.[2] ## Alternatives if Denied or Unavailable **Since discontinued:** Doctors may suggest clinical trials,[6] off-label uses, or alternatives like MIBG therapy, chemotherapy (e.g., cyclophosphamide), or surgery if possible. PAN Foundation or HealthWell for PPGL copays. Generic radiopharms or expanded access (past).[6][7] Discuss with oncologist; sources note investigational off-label under review.[3][4] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available data up to 2024. Azedra is discontinued; availability limited.[2][7] Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor, insurer, or social worker. Eligibility/coverage changes; verify with sources. Radiation risks exist—follow safety protocols.[2][9]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026