Jun 16th 2022
Do I Need a Prescription to Buy CPAP Supplies?
The short answer is yes, you need a prescription to buy CPAP machines and some supplies. But there are some exceptions and other details you should be aware of before becoming a CPAP user.
PAP machines (CPAP, APAP, and BiPAP) are used to treat sleep apnea, a common but potentially serious disorder that causes a person’s breathing to stop temporarily. If you think you might benefit from CPAP therapy, continue reading for information about the use of CPAP devices and supplies.
Which CPAP Supplies Require a Prescription?
CPAP machines and masks require a prescription. A doctor or medical practitioner will assess your condition by discussing your symptoms, reviewing your health history, and ordering a home sleep test. Based on their prognosis, they may prescribe a CPAP machine, humidifier, and/or a mask.
Replaceable CPAP parts and supplies including tubing, mask parts, water chambers, pillows, cushions, and filters do not require a prescription. We also have “Mask Assembly Kits'' available that do not require a prescription. The mask bundles are exactly like regular CPAP masks that require a prescription, only each item is packaged individually. You can add Headgear to any Mask Kit to make it a complete mask. Still, no prescription is required since all the parts will be packaged individually. Check out our CPAP Mask Assembly Kits Here
You can read more about GoCPAP.com’s prescription policy here.
Why Are Prescriptions Required for CPAP Supplies?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) assigns one of three categories to medical devices according to their potential risk to the patient. Class I devices have a mild risk, Class II devices have a moderate risk, and Class III devices have a high risk for people who use them.
CPAP machines are classified as a Class II device. Since a doctor will prescribe a pressure setting for your CPAP therapy, an incorrect setting can potentially be harmful to your health. With a prescription, a qualified medical professional can ensure that the device and its settings will provide beneficial results.
Do I Need a Prescription to Buy Used CPAP Supplies?
While some people are tempted to buy used CPAP machines or supplies from a friend, relative, or online merchant, we strongly recommend against it.
Used devices and supplies can put your health at risk for several reasons. The materials can deteriorate over time which can lead to leaks or cracks, reducing the effectiveness of the CPAP therapy. CPAP machines should be replaced every five years, so using an old one can be detrimental to your treatment. And any machine or supplies that have been used may contain bacteria or germs that can lead to other health problems.
How Can I Get a Prescription for CPAP Supplies?
The first thing you should do is talk with your doctor. A physician will be able to determine whether you have sleep apnea, the condition treated with CPAP therapy.
A prescription will indicate whether or not it expires by including the words “lifetime need” or “99 months” on the label. If the prescription has an expiration date, you’ll need to talk with your doctor each time it needs to be renewed.
If you have any trouble getting a prescription, please contact the staff at GoCPAP.com and we may be able to assist you.
Shop for the Best CPAP Machines, Mask and Humidifiers at GoCPAP.com.
Staying stocked up on your essential supplies will help you maintain an effective and healthy sleep apnea treatment.
Explore our CPAP machine options here. Explore our mask options here. Explore our supplies here.
