VOWST

Indicated For

Clostridioides difficile infection recurrence

About This Medication

# VOWST Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get VOWST at Low or No Cost VOWST (fecal microbiota spores, live-brpk) is an FDA-approved oral medication to prevent recurrence of *Clostridioides difficile* (C. diff) infection in adults after antibiotic treatment for recurrent CDI. The **VOWST Patient Assistance Program (PAP)**, part of the VOWST Voyage™ support program from Seres Therapeutics (now transitioned to Nestlé Health Science), helps **uninsured or underinsured patients** get VOWST at no cost if they meet eligibility criteria.[1][2][6] ## About VOWST **VOWST** is the first and only FDA-approved microbiota-based live biotherapeutic, taken as a 3-day oral regimen of 15 capsules per day. It works by restoring healthy gut bacteria to prevent C. diff from coming back, with clinical trials showing an 88% response rate at 8 weeks.[4][8] It's prescribed after antibiotics for recurrent C. diff, a serious infection causing severe diarrhea that affects hundreds of thousands yearly. Common side effects include abdominal distension (31%), fatigue (22%), constipation (14%), chills (11%), and diarrhea (10%). It may contain food allergens, so discuss allergies with your doctor.[8] VOWST is not for treating active CDI but for prevention after antibiotics. Your doctor should prescribe it alongside antibacterial therapy for timely receipt.[3] ## Who Qualifies for the VOWST PAP? The program targets **uninsured or underinsured patients** facing high out-of-pocket costs. Specific income thresholds are not publicly listed; eligibility depends on financial need and other requirements determined by the program.[1][2][6] Call **(888) 356-5444** for personalized details, as criteria may include household income, assets, and residency.[2] **Note:** No fixed Federal Poverty Level (FPL) percentage is specified. The program emphasizes help for those without adequate coverage.[2] ### Income Eligibility Breakdown | Household Size | Income Threshold | FPL % | Notes | |---------------|------------------|-------|-------| | Individual | Not specified | Not specified | Call (888) 356-5444 for details[2] | | Couple | Not specified | Not specified | Uninsured/underinsured focus[2] | | Family of 3 | Not specified | Not specified | Financial need assessed case-by-case[6] | | Family of 4 | Not specified | Not specified | Other criteria apply[1] | Over 94% of commercial and Medicare patients have access without step therapy, but PAP is for those without coverage.[2] ## Insurance Requirements **Uninsured or underinsured patients** qualify for PAP, potentially receiving VOWST free.[2][6] A separate **VOWST Co-Pay Savings Program** reduces costs to $0 for eligible commercially insured patients (not Medicare/Medicaid).[1] Government programs like Medicare/Medicaid are ineligible for co-pay help.[1] Case managers verify coverage and explore options.[1][2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Talk to Your Doctor:** Discuss VOWST for recurrent C. diff prevention. They initiate enrollment in VOWST Voyage™.[1][2] 2. **Complete Forms:** Your doctor submits the **VOWST Enrollment Form**, **prescription**, and **patient authorization/consents** (including PAP consent).[2][3] 3. **Submit Application:** Use multiple methods—online, fax, or call **(888) 356-5444**. No direct patient application URL; doctor-led.[2][3] 4. **Case Manager Contact:** After enrollment, a case manager calls to verify insurance, benefits, and PAP eligibility. They coordinate with a **specialty pharmacy** for shipment.[1][2] 5. **Provide Documents:** Ensure **VOWST Enrollment Form**, **prescription**, and **patient consents** are complete. Alternate contact info helps.[3] 6. **Approval and Shipment:** If approved, VOWST ships via specialty pharmacy. You'll get a **welcome kit** with brochure and laxative (if eligible).[2] Enrollment is doctor-driven; patients aren't required to enroll for access but benefit from support like dosing reminders (opt-in).[1] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time varies; case managers handle benefits investigation quickly.[1][2] Expect contact soon after doctor submission. Delivery is **shipped via specialty pharmacy** directly to you.[1] Text reminders for the 3-day dosing schedule if opted in.[1] Full transition to Nestlé Health Science ensures supply continuity.[5][7] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Co-Pay Program:** For commercial insurance (not government plans).[1] - **Other Coverage:** Case managers investigate payer options; 90%+ first-recurrence approvals nationally.[2] - **General Assistance:** Explore state programs, nonprofits, or doctor discussions for generics/alternatives (none listed as biosimilars).[2] - **Reapply:** Contact (888) 356-5444 if circumstances change. No biosimilar alternatives noted.[program details] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program data as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change; Seres/Nestlé Health Science sets final criteria. Not medical advice—consult your doctor. Program not valid where prohibited. VOWST rights transferred to Nestlé Health Science (Sep 2024); call for updates.[5][7] Individual results vary.[2]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026