Affordability Check
How to afford CHOLBAM
Generic name: Cholic Acid
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get CHOLBAM — 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 CHOLBAM and its cost
What is this medication? Cholbam is a prescription bile acid replacement therapy used to treat pediatric and adult patients with bile acid synthesis disorders due to single enzyme defects. These rare genetic conditions prevent the body from creating sufficient amounts of primary bile acids, which are necessary for the normal absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins. By providing cholic acid, the medication helps support healthy liver function and prevents the buildup of toxic intermediate bile acids that can cause significant liver damage or failure over time.
The medication is also approved as an adjunctive treatment for patients with peroxisomal disorders, such as Zellweger spectrum disorders, who exhibit symptoms of liver disease or complications related to fat absorption. Cholbam works by supplementing the missing natural bile acids, thereby improving the absorption of essential nutrients and reducing the metabolic stress on the liver. It is important for patients to undergo regular liver function monitoring while taking this medication to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
CHOLBAM is made by Mirum. 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 CHOLBAM?
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 CHOLBAM?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Mirum has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover CHOLBAM?
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 Liver Disease?
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 CHOLBAM
Full CHOLBAM drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Liver Disease
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