NUCALA

Indicated For

severe eosinophilic asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), eosinophilic COPD, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES)

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, and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) in adults. The **GSK Patient Assistance Program (PAP)** provides **NUCALA free of charge** to eligible uninsured or functionally uninsured patients who meet income guidelines, helping those who cannot afford this specialty medicine.[1][2][3] ## About NUCALA **NUCALA** is not for sudden breathing problems or acute attacks—it's a long-term maintenance therapy given by injection every 4 weeks. It targets eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in conditions like severe asthma, CRSwNP, eosinophilic COPD, and EGPA. Administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen, it comes in 100 mg vials or pre-filled syringes. Common forms include 3 x 100 mg vials for certain dosing. Always continue other medications like corticosteroids unless your doctor advises otherwise. Tell your doctor if you have parasitic infections, are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, as risks are not fully known.[1][3][5] NUCALA can significantly improve control of these eosinophil-driven diseases, reducing exacerbations and steroid use, but it's expensive without assistance—thousands per dose. That's where the GSK PAP steps in for those without coverage.[2][7] ## Who Qualifies? The program is primarily for **uninsured patients** or those **functionally uninsured** (insurance doesn't cover NUCALA). You must live in the US, Puerto Rico, or US Virgin Islands. A valid prescription is required, and approval is based on income, residency, and insurance status. **Reauthorization** is needed periodically to continue benefits. Medical expenses may adjust eligibility if they bring you under income limits.[2][6] Separate guidelines apply for Medicare patients (up to higher FPL percentages) and commercial insurance has copay programs—not this PAP.[4][6][7] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility uses **maximum annual gross household income** limits. For **uninsured patients**, base thresholds are: | Household Size | Maximum Annual Gross Income | |---------------|-----------------------------| | 1 | $48,000 | | 2 | $60,000 | | 3 | $72,000 | | 4 | $84,000 | | Each additional person | Add $12,000 | **Notes**: Add $12,000 per extra person. Medical expenses can lower effective income—contact program for details. **Medicare patients** have separate, higher limits (e.g., household of 1: up to $71,960 or more based on FPL; contact for 400% FPL guidelines). Limits subject to change; verify current via phone.[2][6] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured/Functionally Uninsured**: Primary target—no insurance or denial of coverage.[2] - **Medicare**: Separate PAP track with higher income limits.[6] - **Commercial/Private Insurance**: Use NUCALA Copay Program instead (up to $9,450/year savings, $0 copay possible; not for government plans).[4][7][10] Proof of insurance status (or lack thereof) is required. Programs do not count as health insurance.[2][4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm Eligibility**: Check income, residency, and insurance via (844) 468-2252 or gskpaf.org. Gather documents.[2] 2. **Get Prescription**: Ask your doctor for NUCALA prescription and have them complete the Services Request Form.[5] 3. **Prepare Documents**: - Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs) - Proof of residency (utility bill, ID) - Prescription - Proof of insurance status (denial letter or none)[2] 4. **Apply**: Multiple methods—call **(844) 468-2252** (Gateway to NUCALA), download form from gskpaf.org, or enroll online where available. Doctor's office can assist.[2][5][9] 5. **Submit**: Mail/fax/upload with docs. Program reviews in 3 simple steps per site.[2][6] 6. **Await Approval**: If approved, medication ships free.[2] **Tip**: Enroll in Together with NUCALA for navigators to guide you.[9] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time not specified—call for updates. Once approved, **NUCALA ships free to your home or doctor's office**. Refills require reauthorization; submit before running out. Injections every 4 weeks, so plan ahead. Copay portal for reimbursements if applicable.[2][4][5] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Provide medical expense proof to adjust income.[2][6] - **Copay Program**: For commercial insurance ($0-$9,450 savings).[7][10] - **Independent Foundations**: Help with meds/travel (check eligibility separately).[4] - **Simplefill** or other advocates to find programs.[8] - **Doctor samples** or prior authorizations. Contact Gateway at (844) 468-2252 for personalized options.[7][9] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available data as of program details provided. Eligibility, terms, and income limits **subject to change**—always verify with GSK at (844) 468-2252 or gskpaf.org. Not health insurance. Consult your doctor for medical advice. GSK not liable for third-party info. Programs may exclude certain states for admin fees (e.g., MA, MN, RI).[2][4][10] (Word count: 942)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026