1 in 6 asthma patients cannot afford medication

If you’ve ever had to ration an inhaler or skip a refill due to cost, you’re not alone. According to a study by the 2024 study by Thorax, more than 1 in 6 adults with asthma are unable to afford their medications. This ratio is concerning because asthma can lead to ER visits, lost productivity, and long-term lung damage if left unmanaged.

Luckily, asthma prescription assistance programs exist, and many are designed to help uninsured or underinsured patients access the brand-name inhalers they need.

Whether you’re managing asthma yourself or helping a family member through the process, this list offers a simplified breakdown of the top 5 programs available in 2025. We’ve included key highlights, eligibility basics, and what makes each program stand out.

1. GSK Prescription Assistance Program

This program offers prescriptions for Advair, Trelegy, and more.
GSK’s patient assistance program is one of the most reliable options for those prescribed inhalers like Advair Diskus or Trelegy Ellipta. It offers free medications to eligible patients who meet income and insurance requirements.

Their eligibility basics include that the patient:

• Must be a U.S. resident.
• Is typically under 250–300% of the Federal Poverty Level.
• Must be uninsured or facing high out-of-pocket costs.

The prescription assistance program is known for its online portals, allowing faster prescription assistance enrollment with doctor participation.

2. Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation

This program is meant for Spiriva, Combivent, and Stiolto.

Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation is known for providing financial assistance for prescriptions to low-income individuals, including those managing moderate to severe asthma. Their programs include medications like Spiriva Respimat, which are often expensive even with insurance.

Their eligibility basics include that patients:

• Have income typically below 300% FPL.
• Have U.S. residency and a valid prescription.
• Are Uninsured or underinsured.

The foundation’s focus on asthma prescription assistance also extends to caregivers applying on behalf of patients whose condition requires a caretaker.

3. Sanofi Patient Connection

This program offers prescriptions for inhalers like Allegra HF.
Sanofi’s program offers both prescription drug assistance and copay support for eligible patients. It’s particularly helpful for those with fluctuating income or transitioning between insurance plans.

Their eligibility basics include that patients:

• Have income thresholds around 400% FPL.
• Must not have coverage for the requested medication.

Sanofi offers support for both asthma and diabetes prescription assistance, making it ideal for patients managing multiple conditions.

4. Pfizer RxPathways

This program offers prescriptions for inhalers under the Pfizer brand.
Pfizer provides access to over 50 medications, including respiratory treatments, through its prescription assistance program for patients. Their system is known for its wide reach and transparent process.

Their eligibility basics include:

• Available to U.S. residents who lack adequate drug coverage
• Patients with an income limit, generally 300–400% of FPL
• Physician’s signature for confirmation of a patient’s medical condition.

Pfizer is a great option for those needing multiple medications, including treatments for asthma, heart disease, or mental health.

5. AZ&Me AstraZeneca Prescription Assistance Program

This program offers prescriptions for medications like Symbicort.
The AZ&Me program is one of the few that provides medications completely free of charge to qualifying patients, and it supports both uninsured and Medicare Part D patients.

Their eligibility basics specify that:

• Patients must live in the U.S. and be under a specific income threshold (generally up to 300% FPL).
• Uninsured patients qualify directly.
• Medicare patients may be eligible if they face high out-of-pocket costs.

AZ&Me offers phone and mail-in options for those who don’t have access to reliable internet or prefer traditional communication, which can be helpful for seniors or patients who rely on caregivers.

Prescription assistance becomes a need for most asthma patients who want to avoid their condition from progressing

Have Experienced Assistance Connect You To These Programs

Affordable asthma care shouldn’t be out of reach. Several programs are offering fast and effective financial assistance for prescriptions; you just need to know where to look.

If you’re unsure which one fits your needs, Advocate My Meds can help. They connect patients with top asthma prescription assistance programs, explain eligibility, and simplify the process from start to finish.

Whether you’re uninsured or overwhelmed, support is available; Advocate My Meds ensures you don’t have to navigate things alone. Contact them now, and don’t delay your asthma treatment longer!