Catapres-TTS

Indicated For

Hypertension

About This Medication

# Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Catapres-TTS (clonidine) at Low or No Cost The **Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Patient Assistance Program** (BI Cares) offers **Catapres-TTS (clonidine)**, a transdermal patch used to treat high blood pressure, free of charge to eligible US patients who are uninsured or underinsured and meet income guidelines[1][2][5][8]. This guide explains everything you need to know to apply, qualify, and receive your medication. ## About Catapres-TTS (clonidine) **Catapres-TTS** is a prescription skin patch that delivers **clonidine**, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, steadily through the skin to help lower high blood pressure (hypertension)[4]. Unlike oral clonidine tablets, the patch provides consistent dosing over 7 days, reducing the need for daily pills. It's applied to a hairless area like the upper arm or chest and replaced weekly. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and skin irritation at the patch site. Always follow your doctor's instructions, and contact them if you experience severe symptoms like slow heartbeat or fainting. This program helps patients afford this important medication when costs are a barrier, ensuring better blood pressure control and reducing risks of heart attack, stroke, or kidney problems[4]. ## Who Qualifies for BI Cares? To qualify for free Catapres-TTS through BI Cares, you must meet these key criteria[1][5][8][9]: - Be a legal US resident (including territories). - Have a valid prescription for a covered Boehringer Ingelheim medication like Catapres-TTS. - Lack prescription coverage or have inadequate coverage (uninsured or underinsured). - Meet household income limits based on federal poverty level (FPL). - Not be eligible for federal or state programs like Medicaid (though Medicare patients may qualify if underinsured). The program prioritizes seniors and low-income families, providing medications free to those who qualify[6]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown BI Cares uses household income thresholds tied to the **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. Exact limits aren't publicly detailed on all sites, but patients typically qualify if household income is at or below **400% of FPL** (common for many PAPs; confirm during application)[8]. For 2026, FPL examples (approximate, based on HHS guidelines): | Household Size | Max Income (300% FPL) | Max Income (400% FPL) | |---------------|-----------------------|-----------------------| | 1 | $45,180 | $60,240 | | 2 | $61,320 | $81,760 | | 3 | $77,460 | $103,280 | | 4 | $93,600 | $124,800 | | +1 person | +$16,140 | +$21,520 | *Note: These are estimates; apply to verify exact thresholds, as they adjust annually[8][9]. Provide proof like tax returns.* ## Insurance Requirements BI Cares is for **uninsured or underinsured** patients[1][8]. You generally cannot have: - Medicaid, Medicare Part D (with adequate coverage), VA benefits, or other government programs covering the drug. - Adequate commercial insurance that covers Catapres-TTS fully. **Medicare patients**: You may qualify if your coverage is inadequate (e.g., high copays or donut hole) and income meets limits[4][8]. Commercial insurance patients might use copay cards first, but BI Cares helps if uninsured after that[4]. Disclose all coverage on the application. ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying is straightforward and free[3][8]. Here's how: 1. **Get a Prescription**: Ask your doctor for a prescription specifying Catapres-TTS strength and quantity. 2. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (tax return, pay stubs, SSI award letter). - Proof of residency (utility bill, driver's license). - Proof of no/inadequate insurance (benefits summary or denial letter). - Doctor's prescription and patient authorization form (HCP signs)[3][8][9]. 3. **Apply Online or by Mail**: - Visit the **BI Cares Portal** at boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/patient-assistance-program[1][2]. - Download the application PDF and complete it with your doctor[3]. - Or call **1-800-556-8317** for help (BI Cares hotline; check site for current number)[5]. - Third-party help: Use services like Simplefill (877-386-0206) to apply for you[8]. 4. **Submit**: Mail or upload documents. Processing starts once complete. 5. **Track Status**: Log into the patient portal for updates[2]. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing Time**: 2-4 weeks after receiving complete application[2][8]. - **Delivery**: Free medication ships directly to your home or doctor's office via mail. First shipment covers 1-3 months[2]. - **Refills**: Request online or by phone when eligible (typically every 30-90 days). Processed promptly for continuous supply[2]. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible If denied: - **Appeal**: Contact BI Cares with additional info. - **Copay Cards**: Use NowPatient savings card for up to 90% off at 65,000+ pharmacies (insured/uninsured)[4]. - **Generic Clonidine**: Cheaper oral version; ask your doctor. - **Other PAPs**: Check RxAssist.org or NeedyMeds for alternatives[9]. - **State Programs**: Explore local assistance. - **Simplefill**: Matches to other programs[8]. ## Reauthorization Annual renewal required: Resubmit income/insurance proof. Set reminders via portal[2]. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. Eligibility, covered drugs, and rules can change—**always verify directly with BI Cares** at their website or 1-800-556-8317. Not medical advice; consult your doctor. Boehringer Ingelheim reserves rights to modify/discontinue the program. Participation doesn't guarantee approval[1][2][8]. (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026