Bentyl

Indicated For

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

About This Medication

# Bentyl (Dicyclomine) Patient Guide: How to Get Your Medication at Low or No Cost Bentyl (dicyclomine) is a prescription medication used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastrointestinal spasms by relaxing muscles in the stomach and intestines, easing cramps, pain, and bloating.[3][5] This guide explains patient assistance options like RxOutreach, Medicare Extra Help, PAN Foundation, and others to help you access Bentyl affordably if cost is a barrier.[1][2][4] ## About Bentyl (Dicyclomine) **Bentyl** helps relieve symptoms of IBS, a common condition causing abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits. It's available as tablets, capsules, or oral solution, typically taken once daily or as prescribed. Only for adults 18+, it's prescription-only—not over-the-counter—due to potential side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, or issues for those with glaucoma or urinary problems. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report new symptoms.[3] Generic dicyclomine is widely available and often cheaper than brand-name Bentyl. Talk to your doctor about generics or alternatives like dietary changes or stress management.[3][5] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? No single manufacturer-sponsored program exists for Bentyl (AbbVie makes brand Bentyl, but no dedicated PAP listed).[1][2] Instead, qualify through nonprofit and federal programs for low-income, uninsured, or underinsured patients: - **RxOutreach Patient Assistance Program**: Free dicyclomine for those who can't afford it. Must meet financial and program criteria.[2] - **Medicare Extra Help (LIS)**: For Part D enrollees with low income/assets. Covers premiums, deductibles, and copays.[1][6] - **PAN Foundation**: Helps with copays if insured, income ≤300-400% FPL.[4] - **Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief**: Similar to PAN for insured patients with confirmed diagnosis.[4] - **State programs**: Vary by location; check your state Department of Aging.[1][6] Uninsured or low-income patients often qualify most easily via RxOutreach or Extra Help.[2][1] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Programs use Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines, adjusted yearly. For 2026, examples (check SSA.gov for exacts): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 300% FPL | 400% FPL | Notes | |----------------|----------|----------|----------|--------| | Individual | ~$15,060 | ~$45,180 | ~$60,240 | Extra Help ~135% FPL + assets <~$17,550[1] | | Couple | ~$20,440 | ~$61,320 | ~$81,760 | PAN/PAF up to 400%[4] | | Family of 3 | ~$25,820 | ~$77,460 | ~$103,280| RxOutreach: Financial need (no strict %)[2] | | Family of 4 | ~$31,200 | ~$93,600 | ~$124,800| Varies by program; household size counts dependents | **Key**: Extra Help has strict asset limits (e.g., no home equity count). PAN considers cost-of-living. Verify current FPL at benefits.gov.[1][4] ## Insurance Requirements - **RxOutreach**: Primarily for uninsured/underinsured; some insurance OK if unaffordable.[2] - **Extra Help/PAN/PAF**: Often require insurance (Part D/commercial); Medicare patients check exclusions.[1][4][8] - Many PAPs exclude Medicare—confirm per program. If dual Medicare/Medicaid, more options like PACE.[1][6] No insurance? Start with RxOutreach or state aid.[2][9] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm prescription**: Get Bentyl Rx from doctor; discuss generics.[3] 2. **Check eligibility**: Use rxassist.org for RxOutreach, ssa.gov for Extra Help, panfoundation.org for PAN.[1][2][4] 3. **Gather docs**: Proof of income (taxes, paystubs), ID, prescription, insurance card (if any).[2] 4. **Apply**: - RxOutreach: Search database at rxoutreach.org Patient Center.[2] - Extra Help: Online at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.[1][4] - PAN/PAF: Online or call 866-512-3861.[4] 5. **Submit**: Mail/online; doctor/pharmacy may help. 6. **Follow up**: Track status via phone/email. RxOutreach ships direct; others provide copay cards.[2][5] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 2-4 weeks typical; Extra Help faster via SSA.[1] - **Delivery**: RxOutreach mails free meds (3-month supply); copay programs activate at pharmacy.[2][5] - Expect 1-2 weeks post-approval for first shipment. Refills auto or reapply.[2] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Discounts**: GoodRx/Optum Perks save up to 80% ($5+ scripts).[5] - **Generics**: Dicyclomine cheaper.[3] - **Other PAPs**: Walmart, state programs.[8][9] - **Medicare Payment Plan**: Spread Part D costs.[1] - **Doctor options**: Samples, payment plans, or switch meds. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only, based on available data as of 2026. Eligibility, rules change—verify with programs. Not medical/financial advice; consult doctor/financial advisor. Programs may update; e.g., no AbbVie PAP confirmed.[1][2] Word count: 942.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026