Symbicort

Indicated For

asthma, COPD

About This Medication

# AZ&Me Prescription Savings Program Patient Guide: How to Get Symbicort at Low or No Cost Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) is a prescription inhaler used to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults and children. The **AZ&Me Prescription Savings Program** from AstraZeneca helps **uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients** who meet income guidelines get Symbicort at no cost if approved. ## About Symbicort **Symbicort** combines **budesonide**, an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, and **formoterol**, a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that relaxes airway muscles for easier breathing. It's typically used twice daily for long-term control of asthma symptoms or COPD flare-ups, not for sudden attacks—always have a rescue inhaler like albuterol handy. Common side effects include throat irritation, hoarseness, headache, and upper respiratory infections; serious risks involve thrush, pneumonia in COPD patients, or paradoxical bronchospasm. Always follow your doctor's instructions and rinse your mouth after use to prevent thrush. ## Who Qualifies? The program targets **uninsured or underinsured patients** facing high medication costs. You must: - Live in the **U.S. or Puerto Rico**. - Have a valid prescription for Symbicort. - Meet **income eligibility guidelines** based on Federal Poverty Level (FPL), typically up to 400-500% FPL depending on household size (exact thresholds verified during application as they adjust annually). - Not be eligible for full government coverage that fully pays for your meds. This assistance bridges the gap for those whose insurance doesn't cover enough or leaves high copays. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are needs-based and tied to FPL. While exact figures aren't listed here (they update yearly), approval generally requires household income below these common thresholds for AstraZeneca programs. Use the table below as a guide—call (800) 292-6363 or check https://azandmeapp.com for current details. | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (approx. 400% FPL) | Notes | |---------------|---------------------------------------|-------| | 1 (Individual) | $58,320 | Up to 400-500% FPL; verify exact % | | 2 (Couple) | $78,880 | Includes all household income sources | | 3 | $99,440 | Proof required for all earners | | 4 | $120,000 | Larger families get higher limits | **Notes**: Income includes wages, Social Security, pensions, etc. Assets may factor in. Uninsured/underinsured status is key—no strict upper limit if you qualify otherwise. ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: No prescription coverage at all. - **Underinsured**: Insurance exists but copays/deductibles make Symbicort unaffordable (e.g., high out-of-pocket costs). - **Medicare/Medicaid**: Eligible if not fully covered—program supplements gaps, but check Medicare Part D Extra Help first for potentially better benefits. - Government-insured patients with full coverage typically don't qualify. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get Your Prescription**: Ask your doctor for a Symbicort prescription and discuss if they can apply on your behalf (healthcare professionals can submit via fax). 2. **Gather Documents**: - **Proof of income** (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s, SSI/SSDI letters—last 1-2 years). - **Completed application form** (download from https://azandmeapp.com or call for one). - **Prescription** (current, signed by doctor). 3. **Apply** (multiple methods): - **Online**: Visit https://azandmeapp.com—select Symbicort, fill out digitally. - **Phone**: Call (800) 292-6363 (Mon-Fri, 9 AM-6 PM ET) for help or to start. - **Fax/Mail**: Doctor faxes to 1-877-239-0867; meds ship to home or office. 4. **Submit**: Ensure all docs are complete to avoid delays. 5. **Wait for Approval**: 4-6 weeks typical processing. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 4-6 weeks from submission. - **Delivery**: Free shipping to your **home** or **doctor's office**—no activation needed. - **Supply**: Often 12-month supply initially, then reauthorization. - **Reauthorization Required**: Yes—renew annually or as supply ends; simpler process with prior approval. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact (800) 292-6363 to review denial reasons (e.g., income mismatch) and resubmit. - **Other Programs**: Check NeedyMeds, RxAssist.org, or Partnership for Prescription Assistance for Symbicort generics/alternatives. - **Generic Options**: Budesonide/formoterol generics may be cheaper via GoodRx coupons ($200-300/month vs. $400+ brand). - **State Assistance**: Local Medicaid expansion or charity clinics. - **Manufacturer Copay Cards**: AZ savings card for commercially insured (up to $150 off/month, not for gov't insurance). - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation**: Grants for underinsured COPD/asthma patients. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available program details as of 2026. Eligibility, income limits, and terms can change—always verify directly with AstraZeneca at (800) 292-6363 or https://azandmeapp.com. Not medical advice; consult your doctor for treatment. AstraZeneca reserves the right to modify/amend the program. Word count: 950.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026