Colcrys

Indicated For

gout flares, Familial Mediterranean Fever

About This Medication

# Colcrys Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Colcrys at Low or No Cost Colcrys (colchicine) is a prescription medication used to prevent and treat gout flares and Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF). The **Colcrys Patient Assistance Program**, launched by **URL Pharma**, helps eligible patients with limited income obtain a **90-day supply for just a $15 co-payment**, regardless of existing prescription coverage[1]. ## About Colcrys and Why You Might Need It **Colcrys** works by reducing inflammation caused by uric acid crystals in gout flares or genetic factors in FMF. Gout causes sudden, severe joint pain, often in the big toe, while FMF leads to recurrent fevers and abdominal pain. If you're diagnosed with either condition, your doctor may prescribe Colcrys as a first-line treatment[1][2]. Common side effects include diarrhea and throat pain. It's contraindicated in patients with severe kidney or liver issues taking certain other drugs. Always consult your doctor for full safety info and report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or URL Pharma at 1-888-351-3786[1][2]. This program ensures no one skips doses due to cost, especially in tough economic times[1]. Note: This 2008 program was administered via Rx Outreach; current details may vary, so verify via listed contacts. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The program targets **patients with limited means**—uninsured, underinsured, or low-income individuals needing Colcrys. You qualify if you have a valid prescription and meet income eligibility through Rx Outreach[1]. Separate **Co-Pay Assistance Program** (ended 2010) was for insured patients, capping costs at $25 (up to $65 savings), but excluded Medicare/Medicaid[2]. For today's Medicare patients, explore Extra Help or other options[3]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds aren't detailed in available info, but Rx Outreach typically bases eligibility on **federal poverty level (FPL)** for low-income patients. Contact them for your household size[1]. Here's a general table of common PAP income limits (as of recent standards; confirm with program): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (approx. 400% FPL) | |----------------|---------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $60,000 | | 2 (Couple) | $81,000 | | 3 | $102,000 | | 4 | $123,000 | *Notes: Limits vary; program open regardless of insurance for PAP. Excludes government-funded plans for co-pay version[1][2].* ## Insurance Requirements The **Patient Assistance Program works regardless of existing prescription coverage**—ideal for uninsured/underinsured[1]. However, the co-pay program required primary coverage and excluded Medicare, Medicaid, VA, etc.[2]. **Medicare patients**: Many PAPs exclude you; check Rx Outreach rules. Use Medicare Extra Help (lowers copays/deductibles if income/assets qualify) or 2025 Prescription Payment Plan to spread costs up to $2,000 out-of-pocket cap[3]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a Prescription**: Ask your doctor for Colcrys (30+ tablets for co-pay eligibility, though PAP is for 90-day supply)[1][2]. 2. **Check Eligibility**: Call **1-800-769-3880** (7am-5:30pm CST, Mon-Fri) or visit **www.rxoutreach.com**[1]. Also check www.rxassist.org, www.pparx.org, www.needymeds.org. 3. **Apply Online/Phone/Fax**: Patients/physicians apply via phone, website, or fax orders to **1-888-430-9818** for clinics[1]. Provide income proof, prescription, ID. 4. **Submit Documents**: Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), residency, prescription. Rx Outreach handles specifics[1]. 5. **Approval**: If approved, get 90-day supply for **$15 co-pay**[1]. 6. **Pickup**: Via Express Scripts Specialty Distribution Services (ESSDS)[1]. ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time not specified, but Rx Outreach aims for quick turnaround—often days to weeks. Delivery via mail or pharmacy pickup through ESSDS. Opt for 90-day supplies to minimize refills[1][3]. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Generic Colchicine**: Cheaper; covered by many Medicare plans[3]. - **Co-Pay Cards/Coupons**: For commercial insurance via sites like GoodRx[3]. - **Medicare Extra Help**: No deductible/low copays if low-income[3]. - **Other PAPs**: Prescription Hope ($70/month), HealthWell Foundation (for Medicare gout access)[4][8]. - **State Programs**: Check your state's pharmaceutical assistance[3]. - **90-Day Supplies**: Lower copays via mail-order[3]. ## Refills and Reauthorization Likely annual reapplication with updated income proof. Contact Rx Outreach for details[1]. ## Disclaimer This guide uses historical program info (2008-2010)[1][2]. Programs change; **always verify current eligibility, terms at www.rxoutreach.com or 1-800-769-3880**. Not medical/financial advice—consult your doctor/ advisor. URL Pharma no longer primary (Takeda now owns); check colcrys.com[2]. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026