Affordability Check
How to afford SSKI
Generic name: Potassium Iodide
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get SSKI — 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 SSKI and its cost
What is this medication? SSKI, which stands for Saturated Solution of Potassium Iodide, is an oral medication primarily used as an expectorant to help thin and loosen mucus in the airways. By making secretions less viscous, it assists patients with chronic lung conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, or emphysema in coughing up phlegm more easily. This allows for clearer breathing and can help manage symptoms associated with long-term respiratory diseases where thick mucus is a significant issue.
Beyond its respiratory applications, SSKI is frequently prescribed to treat various thyroid conditions. It is commonly used before a thyroidectomy to reduce the size and vascularity of the thyroid gland, which makes the surgical procedure safer and more manageable. Additionally, it may be used to treat hyperthyroidism or thyroid storm by blocking the release of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. In certain emergency situations, it is also utilized to protect the thyroid gland from absorbing radioactive iodine following radiation exposure.
SSKI is made by Upsher Smith. 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 SSKI?
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 SSKI?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Upsher Smith has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover SSKI?
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 Chronic Bronchitis?
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 SSKI
Full SSKI drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Chronic Bronchitis
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