Nucala

Indicated For

severe eosinophilic asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), eosinophilic COPD

About This Medication

# GSK Patient Assistance Program for NUCALA Patient Guide: How to Get NUCALA at Low or No Cost NUCALA (mepolizumab) is a prescription medication used as an add-on maintenance treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma in patients 6 years and older, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) in adults, eosinophilic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults with an eosinophilic phenotype, and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) in adults. The **GSK Patient Assistance Program (PAP)** helps eligible uninsured or underinsured patients access NUCALA at no cost by covering the medication if you meet income and other criteria.[1][2][6][8] ## About NUCALA **NUCALA** works by targeting eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in inflammation, helping reduce severe asthma attacks, nasal polyps, COPD exacerbations, or EGPA symptoms when added to standard treatments. It's given as a subcutaneous injection every 4 weeks, typically 100 mg (three 100 mg/mL injections for some indications). It's not for sudden breathing problems or acute relief. Always follow your doctor's instructions, as it's a biologic medicine requiring proper storage and administration.[6][7][8] Common side effects include headache, injection site reactions, back pain, and fatigue. Serious risks like allergic reactions or shingles can occur—discuss with your healthcare provider. NUCALA is not a cure but helps manage specific eosinophil-driven conditions when other treatments aren't enough.[6][8] ## Who Qualifies? The program is for **U.S. residents** (including Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) who are **uninsured** or whose insurance doesn't cover NUCALA (contact program for 'functionally uninsured' details). You must have a valid prescription and meet **income limits** based on household size and gross annual income. Patients exceeding limits may qualify by showing high medical expenses—call to discuss.[1][2] Income thresholds differ slightly by category (e.g., uninsured vs. Medicare), but here's a breakdown using the standard uninsured table (confirm current limits when applying, as they may update):[1][2] | Household Size | Maximum Annual Gross Income (Uninsured) | |---------------|-----------------------------------------| | 1 | $48,000 |[1] | 2 | $60,000 |[1] | 3 | $72,000 |[1] | 4 | $84,000 |[1] | Each additional | +$12,000 |[1] Higher thresholds apply for Medicare patients or other categories (e.g., up to $62,600 for one person in some cases). Income is gross before taxes; include all household members. Proof of income is required.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is strict but flexible: - **Calculate household size**: Include you, spouse/partner, and dependents under 18 or full-time students under 24. - **Income types counted**: Wages, Social Security, pensions, etc. - **Exceptions**: Exceeding limits? Submit medical expense receipts (e.g., copays, deductibles) to potentially offset income. - **Examples**: - Single person earning $47,000: Likely qualifies. - Family of 4 at $85,000: May not, unless medical costs reduce effective income. Use the table above as a guide. Thresholds are ~400% of Federal Poverty Level (FPL) but not explicitly stated as such. Always verify by phone.[1][2] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: No prescription drug coverage at all.[1] - **Underinsured/Functionally Uninsured**: Insurance denies NUCALA coverage—provide denial letter. Medicare patients have separate criteria; program assists if income qualifies.[2] - **Not eligible**: Those with commercial insurance should check the NUCALA Copay Program instead (for out-of-pocket costs).[3] - Government programs like Medicaid may disqualify you; confirm details.[3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process Enrollment is straightforward in **3 steps** via phone, mail, or online (multiple methods).[1][2][3] 1. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s for last year). - Proof of residency (utility bill, lease). - Valid prescription from your doctor. - Proof of no insurance (insurance card showing no coverage or denial letter).[1][2] 2. **Contact the Program**: - Call **(844) 468-2252** (Gateway to NUCALA, Mon-Fri 8 AM-8 PM ET) to start. They'll guide you and check eligibility.[1][6][9] - Or visit gskpaf.org/gsk for forms.[1][2] - Your doctor or pharmacy can submit on your behalf.[7] 3. **Submit Application**: - Complete form with doctor signature. - Mail or fax documents. - Approval grants free medication for up to 12 months (reauthorization needed).[1][2] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time isn't specified but expect 2-4 weeks based on similar programs—call for updates. Once approved, NUCALA is **shipped free** to your home or doctor's office every 4 weeks. Refills require reauthorization; your doctor resubmits confirmation of need.[1][7] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Provide more medical expense proof or updated income.[1] - **Copay Program**: For commercial insurance (not government)—reduces copays.[3] - **Independent Foundations**: Check for grants covering meds/travel.[3] - **Simplefill or Similar**: Helps apply to programs (1-877-386-0206).[4] - **Patient Navigator**: Call 1-844-225-5894 for options.[3][5] - **Discount Cards**: Pharmacy options or GSKForYou pricing info.[9] ## Reauthorization and Refills **Reauthorization is required** annually or per cycle. Your doctor submits progress notes confirming ongoing need. Set reminders to avoid gaps.[1][2][7] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on available program details as of latest sources. Eligibility, terms, and income limits **can change**—always contact GSK PAP directly at (844) 468-2252 for current info. This is **not health insurance** or medical advice. Consult your doctor for treatment decisions. GSK or affiliates not liable for errors. Word count: 1028.[1][2][3]

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026