Cayston

Indicated For

Cystic Fibrosis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections

About This Medication

# Cayston Access Program Patient Guide: How to Get Cayston (aztreonam) at Low or No Cost Cayston (aztreonam for inhalation solution) is a prescription antibiotic used to treat lung infections caused by *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). The **Cayston Access Program** from Gilead Sciences helps eligible patients access this medication through financial assistance, co-pay support, insurance help, and free medication for those who qualify[1][5]. ## About Cayston and Why It's Important **Cayston** is inhaled three times a day, at least 4 hours apart, using the Altera Nebulizer System. It's designed for CF patients 7 years and older with FEV1 between 25% and 75% predicted. It targets *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* bacteria that can hide deep in the lungs, helping reduce symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and mucus[6][7]. Common side effects include cough, nasal congestion, wheezing, sore throat, fever, chest discomfort, stomach pain, and vomiting. Do not use if allergic to aztreonam. Always discuss with your doctor[7]. The Cayston Access Program (CAP) simplifies access by providing the Altera Nebulizer, specialty pharmacy coordination, insurance verification, and financial aid. It's especially helpful for uninsured patients or those with high out-of-pocket costs[1][3][5]. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? CAP offers two main paths: - **Patient Assistance Program (PAP)**: Free Cayston for uninsured patients meeting income criteria. Specific Federal Poverty Level (FPL) thresholds are not publicly detailed but apply to uninsured individuals/families[5]. Call 1-877-722-9786 for exact eligibility. - **Co-pay Savings Program**: For commercial insurance patients (not government programs like Medicare/Medicaid). Eligible patients may pay as little as **$10 per month**[5]. **Income Eligibility Breakdown** Since exact income limits aren't specified online, here's a general guide based on typical programs (confirm with CAP): | Household Size | Estimated Max Annual Income (300-400% FPL)* | |----------------|--------------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $45,000 - $60,000 | | 2 (Couple) | $60,000 - $80,000 | | 3 | $75,000 - $100,000 | | 4 | $90,000 - $120,000 | *Notes: For uninsured only. Thresholds vary; actuals may be lower. U.S. residency required. Gilead's Advancing Access PAP supports similar criteria for select drugs[5]. Contact program for personalized assessment. ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured for Cayston**: Qualify for free medication via PAP with proof of no coverage[1][5]. - **Commercial Insurance**: Co-pay program reduces costs to $10/month (not for government insurance)[5]. - **Government Insurance (Medicare Part D, Medicaid)**: Ineligible for co-pay aid; explore other options via CAP case managers[1][5]. CAP verifies benefits, handles prior authorizations, and appeals denials[1]. Cayston is only through specialty pharmacies—CAP helps select one covered by your plan[3]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Talk to Your CF Care Team**: Your doctor completes the application with you. Download the form from cayston.com[1][3]. 2. **Gather Documents**: - Completed, signed application (physician and patient). - Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, etc.). - Proof of no insurance for Cayston (for PAP). - Prescription for Cayston[1]. 3. **Submit Application**: - Fax: 1-877-550-1705 (preferred). - Electronic: CAP.eHIPAA.com (e-signature OK). - Call 1-877-722-9786 (8 AM–8 PM EST, Mon-Fri) for help[1]. 4. **Choose Specialty Pharmacy**: CAP coordinates; ensure it's insurer-approved[3]. 5. **Enroll in Support**: Get Altera Nebulizer and welcome call[3]. ## Timeline and Delivery Processing takes **3-5 business days** after submission. CAP ships to your home via specialty pharmacy. Expect a welcome call to confirm receipt and answer questions[1][3]. First treatment prep includes nebulizer training[3]. **Reauthorization**: Required periodically—your doctor resubmits[program details]. ## If Denied or No Alternatives - **Appeals**: CAP helps with insurance denials and provides appeal info[1]. - **Other Options**: Explore Gilead Advancing Access PAP, Prescription Hope ($70/month), or doctor samples. No biosimilars available[5][9]. - **Denied PAP**: Check income re-verification or co-pay if commercially insured. ## Tips for Success - Call CAP early: 1-877-7CAYSTON (722-9786). - Schedule doses consistently. - Track symptoms and report to your team[6]. **Disclaimer**: This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change. It is not medical or financial advice. Consult your healthcare provider and contact CAP directly (1-877-722-9786) for current details. Gilead Sciences reserves rights to modify the program. Always follow your prescription and report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026