Colcrys

Indicated For

Gout flares, Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), Pericarditis

About This Medication

# Colcrys Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Colcrys (colchicine) at Low or No Cost This guide explains the **Colcrys Patient Assistance Program** from Takeda (formerly associated with URL Pharma), designed to help **uninsured or underinsured patients** access **Colcrys (colchicine)** for free if they meet eligibility criteria. Colcrys is now managed under Takeda's **Help At Hand** program, providing critical support for those facing high medication costs.[5][6] ## About Colcrys (colchicine) **Colcrys (colchicine)** is a prescription medication used to treat and prevent **gout flares**, **familial Mediterranean fever (FMF)**, and **pericarditis**. It works by reducing inflammation caused by uric acid crystals in gout or other conditions. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain—always follow your doctor's dosing instructions to avoid toxicity. This program helps ensure you can continue treatment without financial barriers.[6] ## Who Qualifies? The program targets patients with **limited financial means** who are **uninsured, underinsured, or whose insurance doesn't cover Colcrys**. Key requirements include: - Residency in the United States or its territories. - Prescription from a U.S.-licensed physician. - No or insufficient prescription coverage (private or government programs like Medicare Part D, unless meeting specific exceptions). - Proof of financial need, reviewed case-by-case. **Income Eligibility**: Specific thresholds (e.g., % of Federal Poverty Level) are **not publicly disclosed** and determined individually. Applicants with income below 135% FPL may be referred to Social Security Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) first. Provide recent proof of income; no income requires attestation.[5][6] | Household Size | Income Threshold | Notes | |---------------|------------------|-------| | Individual | Case-by-case | Specific FPL % not listed; <135% FPL referred to LIS[6] | | Couple | Case-by-case | Proof required (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs)[5] | | Family of 3 | Case-by-case | Reviewed individually[6] | | Family of 4 | Case-by-case | No fixed limits disclosed | *Table based on program notes; call (800) 769-3880 or 1-800-830-9159 for personalized assessment.*[5][6] ## Insurance Requirements Eligible patients are typically: - **Uninsured** (no prescription coverage). - **Underinsured** (coverage insufficient to obtain Colcrys, e.g., high copays or denials). - **Medicare Part D patients** may qualify if not enrolled in LIS or denied; attach denial letter if applicable. Patients with private insurance or government coverage must exhaust other options first. The program does not cover those with adequate coverage.[5][6] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Discuss with your doctor**: Confirm Colcrys is prescribed and get their involvement—they must complete and sign sections of the form. 2. **Download or request application**: Available via Takeda's Help At Hand site (helpathandpap.com) or call **1-800-830-9159**. Use the form for Colcrys (generic colchicine).[5][6] 3. **Complete the form**: - **Patient sections**: Personal info, income proof, insurance details, signatures. - **Provider sections**: Doctor completes medical necessity, signs (original signature required—no stamps). 4. **Gather required documents**: - **Proof of income** (pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s; attest if none). - **Proof of residency** (utility bill, lease). - **Completed enrollment form** signed by physician. - **Valid U.S. prescription**. - Medicare LIS denial if applicable.[5][6][7] 5. **Submit**: Fax to 1-800-497-0928 or mail to Takeda Patient Assistance Program, P.O. Box 5727, Louisville, KY 40255-0727. Multiple methods available.[6] **Tip**: Incomplete applications delay processing—double-check everything.[5] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing time**: **5-7 business days** for eligibility decision (faster than initial 2-6 week estimate; you/your doctor receive a letter).[5][6] - **Delivery**: Free medication shipped to **physician's office** or **patient's home** upon approval. Supply duration varies (e.g., 3 months).[6][8] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact Help At Hand at 1-800-830-9159 for reasons and resubmission options. - **Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)**: If income <135% FPL, apply at ssa.gov. - **Other programs**: Prescription Hope (1-877-296-HOPE), RxAssist.org, or state assistance. - **Generic colchicine**: Ask your doctor about alternatives, though program-specific. - **Co-pay cards**: Check Takeda for insured patients (separate from PAP).[2][4] No biosimilar alternatives listed for Colcrys. ## Refills and Reauthorization Reauthorization may be needed periodically—your doctor resubmits updated forms. Track supply and plan ahead.[6] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of 2026. Eligibility is **case-by-case** and subject to change. **Consult your healthcare provider** and contact the program directly at **(800) 769-3880** or **1-800-830-9159** for latest info. Not medical advice—always follow professional guidance. Program not guaranteed; Takeda reserves rights to modify.[5][6] *Word count: 950*

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026