Affordability Check
How to afford Cathflo Activase
Generic name: Alteplase
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get Cathflo Activase — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.
Pick an option above to see your specific path.
Different insurance means different laws and different savings. For example, Medicare patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards (federal law) — but the manufacturer almost always has a Patient Assistance Program that gives the drug free.
About Cathflo Activase and its cost
What is this medication? Cathflo Activase is a prescription medication known as a tissue plasminogen activator, which is used to clear blockages in central venous access devices. These devices, including central lines and ports, can sometimes become obstructed by blood clots that prevent the delivery of fluids or the withdrawal of blood samples. The medication works by breaking down fibrin, the protein that holds blood clots together, effectively dissolving the obstruction within the catheter to restore flow.
This drug is specifically designed for local instillation directly into the clogged catheter rather than for systemic circulation throughout the body. It is an important tool in clinical settings because it can restore the function of a medical line without the need for a surgical procedure to replace the device. By resolving the occlusion, Cathflo Activase ensures that patients can continue receiving necessary treatments, such as chemotherapy or intravenous nutrition, through their existing vascular access point.
Cathflo Activase is made by Genentech. Like most brand-name drugs, it's priced at a high list price — but patients rarely pay that list price. The options above are the real paths most people use to get it affordably.
Common questions
What's the cheapest way to afford Cathflo Activase?
It depends on your insurance. On Medicare, apply for the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program (PAP) — it gives the drug free if you meet income requirements. With private insurance, the manufacturer copay card usually drops your copay to $0-$25. Uninsured patients should compare the PAP with Cost Plus Drugs cash price.
Can I use a copay card with Medicare for Cathflo Activase?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Genentech has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover Cathflo Activase?
Part D coverage varies by plan. We query the CMS Prescription Drug Plan file to show you what percentage of plans cover it and at what tier. For your exact copay, pick "Medicare" above and check your plan's Summary of Benefits, or log in to Medicare.gov.
How long does a Patient Assistance Program take?
Most PAPs take 2-6 weeks from application to first fill. Ask the manufacturer about a "bridge supply" — many will ship 30 days free while your application is being reviewed so you don't go without the drug.
What if I have a high-deductible plan?
For generics, Cost Plus Drugs cash price is often cheaper than your deductible-phase copay. For brand names, the manufacturer copay card almost always wins. A GoodRx coupon can be a last resort for uncovered drugs, but it doesn't count toward your deductible.
Are there charity grants for Blood clot from a vascular implant?
Charities like HealthWell Foundation, PAN Foundation, Good Days, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders provide copay help for specific conditions. Funds often run out mid-year — apply early. We list the specific grants for your condition in the options above.
More about Cathflo Activase
Full Cathflo Activase drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Blood clot from a vascular implant
Drugs, grants, and assistance for this condition
Guide to Patient Assistance Programs
How PAPs work, who qualifies, typical wait times
If your insurance denied coverage
5-level appeal playbook — Medicare has a 60% win rate at Level 3