TOBI

Indicated For

Cystic Fibrosis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa

About This Medication

# Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get TOBI (tobramycin) at Low or No Cost TOBI (tobramycin) is an inhaled antibiotic used to treat lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis, and the **Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)** offers it at low or no cost to eligible uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients who meet income guidelines. ## About TOBI (Tobramycin) **TOBI** is a prescription medication delivered via a nebulizer. It contains tobramycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic that targets Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria in the lungs. It's typically used in 28-day cycles (on for 28 days, off for 28 days) for cystic fibrosis patients aged 6 and older. Common side effects include cough, throat irritation, and voice changes. Always use under doctor supervision, as it can affect hearing or kidney function with improper use. This program helps cover costs when insurance falls short. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The NPAF provides free or low-cost Novartis medications like TOBI to patients who: - Live in the U.S. or U.S. territories. - Have limited or no prescription insurance (uninsured or underinsured). - Meet **income guidelines** based on Federal Poverty Level (FPL), varying by household size and medication. - Have a valid prescription from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider. - Are treated on an outpatient basis. Patients with full prescription coverage or who exceed income limits do not qualify. Check eligibility at www.PAP.Novartis.com before applying. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown NPAF uses income-based eligibility tied to FPL (typically up to 400-500% FPL, but confirm on PAP.Novartis.com for TOBI specifics, as it varies). Provide proof like the first 2 pages of your most recent 1040 tax return. If you don't file taxes, call 1-800-277-2254. Here's a general **income threshold table** (2026 FPL estimates; verify current guidelines): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (up to ~400% FPL) | |----------------|-------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | | 3 | ~$102,000 | | 4 | ~$123,000 | | +1 per member | +$21,000 | *Notes: Exact thresholds depend on the drug and year. Household size matches your tax return. Sliding scale may apply.* ## Insurance Requirements This program is for **uninsured or underinsured patients**. Submit front/back copies of all insurance cards (primary, secondary, prescription). If insured, include prior authorization (PA) approval/denial or appeal outcomes. Medicare Part D patients may qualify if they hit the coverage gap (donut hole) or have high copays, but full coverage disqualifies you. No prescription drug coverage is ideal for eligibility. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit www.PAP.Novartis.com. Search for TOBI (tobramycin) to confirm income limits and availability. 2. **Download the Form**: Get the application from the site or call (877) 862-4423 / 1-800-277-2254 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm EST). 3. **Complete Patient Section**: Fill in personal info, income, insurance details, household size. Sign patient authorization. 4. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (first 2 pages of 1040 tax return). - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill). - Copies of all insurance cards (front/back). - Any PA/denial letters if insured. 5. **Prescriber Completes Their Part**: Your doctor fills out the healthcare professional section, includes prescription, signs authorizations. 6. **Submit**: Mail to NPAF, PO Box 2529, Columbus, OH 43216 or PO Box 52029, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2029. Fax: 1-855-817-2711. *Complete apps only—missing info causes delays/denials.* ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 2-4 weeks. You'll get a letter (or text if opted in) with status. Incomplete apps get a 'next steps' notice. - **Approval**: Medication shipped free to your home (patient delivery). - **Supply**: Often 1-3 months; reauthorization needed for refills. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Reapply**: Fix issues (e.g., add docs) and resubmit. - **Other Programs**: Check NeedyMeds, RxAssist, or PAN Foundation for cystic fibrosis/TOBI aid. Simplefill (877-386-0206) matches patients to programs. - **Manufacturer Copay Cards**: Viatris (TOBI maker) may have savings for insured patients. - **State Programs**: Look into cystic fibrosis foundations or Medicaid extras. - **Contact NPAF**: Call for denial reasons and appeals. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available NPAF details as of 2026. Eligibility, guidelines, and processes can change—always verify at www.PAP.Novartis.com or by calling (877) 862-4423. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment; program doesn't guarantee approval. Viatris manufactures TOBI, but NPAF handles assistance. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026