Amitiza (lubiprostone) is a prescription medication that’s used to treat chronic constipation in people who can’t get relief with laxatives alone. Because it’s a brand‑name drug and isn’t yet generic, the cost can be a bit high. Luckily, Pfizer (the manufacturer) offers a Patient Assistance Program (PAP) that can act like a discount card for qualifying patients.
---
What the program looks like
| Feature | Details |
|---------|---------|
| Who it’s for | Adults and children who are uninsured, under‑insured, or have high out‑of‑pocket costs, and who can’t afford the drug. |
| Application | Completed online or by phone. You’ll need income information, proof of lack of insurance, and a prescription. |
| Approval | After review, you’ll receive a “patient assistance card” (or an “eligibility letter”) that you give to your pharmacist. |
| Coverage | The card covers a certain portion (often 80‑90%) of the medication’s cost per month. It’s not a full‑coverage insurance plan, but it can cut the price dramatically. |
| Renewal | Usually you can renew the program each month you need the medication, as long as you continue to meet eligibility. |
---
How to get it
1. Visit Pfizer’s Amitiza Patient Assistance Program page
URL: https://www.pfizer.com/patient-support/patient-assistance-program/amitiza
2. Fill out the eligibility questionnaire.
*You’ll need your Social Security number, income level, and a copy of the prescription. The form is usually 10‑15 minutes. If you prefer, you can call the program’s helpline. *
3. Submit and wait for approval.
*Approval can take a few business days. Some people receive a response within 24 hrs. *
4. Collect your card.
*You’ll either get a physical card or a PDF you can print. Bring it to your pharmacy. *
If you’re already working with an insurance plan, be sure to check with your pharmacy benefit manager first; some plans cover the drug or provide a separate co‑pay card.
---
Alternatives if the PAP isn’t an option
| Option | Quick Tips |
|--------|------------|
| Generic alternatives | Currently there’s no generic version of lubiprostone, so this isn’t a route. |
| Insurance coverage | Verify whether your plan covers it under the “specialty pharmacy” benefit. |
| Pharmacy discount cards | Many major chains (CVS, Walgreens) offer discount cards that can lower the copay for certain drugs. |
| Manufacturer’s “Copay Card” | Pfizer sometimes offers a separate “Amitiza Copay Card” that covers a portion of the co‑pay for people who already have insurance. |
| State or local assistance programs | Some state health departments or charitable organizations provide medication assistance. |
---
A quick recap
- Amitiza discount card → Pfizer’s Patient Assistance Program.
- Eligibility → Uninsured or under‑insured with financial need.
- Application → Online form or phone call, submit proof of income + prescription.
- Result → Card that covers a large part of the monthly cost; renewable each month.
- Other options → Insurance benefit check, pharmacy discount cards, copay cards, local aid.
If you need help filling out the application or have questions about your specific insurance, feel free to let me know!