Affordability Check
How to afford Colcrys
Generic name: Colchicine
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get Colcrys — 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 Colcrys and its cost
What is this medication? Colcrys is a brand-name prescription medication containing the active ingredient colchicine. It is primarily used to treat and prevent gout flares in adults. Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling. This medication works by decreasing the swelling and inflammation associated with these crystals, helping to relieve pain and improve joint mobility during an acute attack.
In addition to managing gout, Colcrys is approved for the treatment of a genetic inflammatory condition called Familial Mediterranean Fever in adults and children who are at least four years old. It functions by inhibiting the processes that cause inflammation in the body, specifically by preventing certain white blood cells from traveling to areas of irritation. While it is effective for managing these specific inflammatory conditions, it is not a general pain reliever and should only be used as directed by a healthcare professional.
Colcrys is made by Takeda. 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 Colcrys?
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 Colcrys?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Takeda has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover Colcrys?
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 Gout?
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 Colcrys
Full Colcrys drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Gout
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