Can I Get a CPAP Without a Prescription?

We hear this question time and time again! In this article, we hope to provide you with some answers to explain why a prescription is necessary. We’ll also be discussing ways to help you update your prescription or get an initial Rx if you’ve never had one for CPAP before.

Why Do I Need a Prescription For CPAP?

CPAP devices are considered Class II medical devices, according to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). CPAP therapy is only advised for people who have completed a sleep study and been diagnosed by a medical professional with a sleep apnea disorder. According to FDA regulations, a prescription is necessary to order a CPAP machine, which ensures that you get the correct therapy for your unique needs.

A prescription allows a medical professional to outline the exact equipment and settings you need for proper treatment. The Rx often includes:

Sleep Disorder Type (Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Central Sleep Apnea, etc).
Device Needed (CPAP, BiPAP, etc)
Pressure Level/Range
Mask Type (Full-Face, Nasal, Nasal Pillow)

All of these details are necessary so you can treat your sleep apnea correctly. When we receive your CPAP prescription, we carefully program your machine to the settings specified by your doctor, before we ship the device out to you. Without a prescription, you run the risk of improper treatment.

Does All CPAP Equipment Require a Prescription?

This can be confusing, since some products do require a Rx and others can be ordered without prescriptions. Here are the basic guidelines:

Items that DO require a Prescription:

CPAP Machines
Humidifiers
Mask Systems

Items that DON’T require a Prescription:

Water Chambers
Tubing
CPAP Filters
Mask Parts
CPAP Cleaning Devices

Who Can Write a CPAP Prescription?

If you already see a healthcare provider regularly, they may be able to write you a prescription for CPAP. The following healthcare professionals can write CPAP prescriptions:

Medical Doctor (MD)
Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)
Dentist
Psychiatrist (MD)
Sleep Specialist
Naturopath
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Physician’s Assistant (PA)
And Others

If your physician already has your prescription on file, we’d be happy to reach out to your doctor’s office to make things easier for you.

What If I Need An Updated CPAP Prescription?

Need an updated prescription, but don’t want to make a trip to the doctors? We have a solution for you! Easy Breathe has a CPAP Prescription Renewal Program, also known as our “CPAPRx Program.” You can get an updated CPAP prescription online from one of our board-certified physicians that will be valid for 8 years.

Who Qualifies?

Those who have previously completed a sleep study
Those who have previously had a CPAP prescription written by a licensed doctor

How Do I Update My Prescription?

All you have to do is…

Place an order for our CPAPRx Package
Fill out the questionnaire that’s emailed to you and submit it back to us
One of our licensed physicians will review your responses and write you a renewal prescription

What If I Have Never Had a CPAP Prescription?

We’ve now established why a prescription is necessary for ordering a CPAP. If you’ve never had a prescription before, and therefore wouldn’t qualify for our Prescription Renewal Program, then you would need to do a sleep study.

Fortunately, Easy Breathe has easy and convenient Home Sleep Test options that you can do from the comfort of your own home. Through our Home Sleep Test program, you can obtain a CPAP prescription without ever having to go into a doctor’s office. To learn more about these options, check out our article on Home Sleep Tests!

What If I Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (866) 564-2252 or chat in on our website. One of our customer service representatives would be happy to help!