Bydureon

Indicated For

Type 2 diabetes

About This Medication

# Bydureon Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Bydureon at Low or No Cost Bydureon (exenatide extended-release) is an injectable medication used to help control blood sugar levels in adults with **type 2 diabetes**, alongside diet and exercise. This guide explains the **AstraZeneca Bydureon Patient Assistance Program** (also known as AZ&Me), which provides Bydureon at no cost to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients who meet income limits. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The program helps U.S. residents who: - Lack prescription drug coverage or have insurance that doesn't cover Bydureon (Medicare patients must not qualify for Low-Income Subsidy). - Have a valid prescription for Bydureon from a U.S.-licensed doctor. - Meet **household income thresholds** based on family size. **Income Eligibility Breakdown** Income limits ensure help reaches those who need it most. Here's a clear table of guidelines: | Household Size | Annual Income Limit | |----------------|---------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $40,000 | | 2 (Couple) | $60,000 | | 3 | Varies (contact program) | | 4 | $100,000 | | Larger families| Up to $100,000 annually; thresholds vary by program | *Notes: Limits are approximate and evaluated case-by-case. Recent income changes (e.g., job loss) may still allow qualification. Always verify with the program.* ## About Bydureon **Bydureon** is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection that mimics a hormone called GLP-1 to boost insulin release, slow digestion, and reduce liver glucose production. It's for type 2 diabetes management when other treatments aren't enough. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and injection-site reactions—discuss risks with your doctor. A newer version, **Bydureon BCise**, offers similar benefits with an easier-to-use auto-injector. ## Insurance Requirements This program targets **uninsured or underinsured patients** whose insurance denies Bydureon coverage. You're ineligible if you have private insurance, third-party coverage, or government programs (except Medicare without Part D Low-Income Subsidy). Medicare beneficiaries can apply if they don't receive subsidy benefits. Provide proof of insurance status during application. ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying is straightforward with multiple options: 1. **Gather Documents**: Collect income proof (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s), insurance verification (denial letter or statement), valid Bydureon prescription, and your doctor's contact info. 2. **Choose Method**: - **Phone**: Call **(877) 386-0206** for help from a patient advocate. They guide you through questions on finances, insurance, and meds. - **Online/Mail**: Download forms from AstraZeneca's site or RxAssist.org, fill interactively, and mail to the address provided. 3. **Submit**: Include all required docs. No application fee. 4. **Wait for Review**: Processing takes **2-4 weeks**. 5. **Approval Notification**: If approved, medication ships free. *Tip: Start early—enrollment lasts 12 months with reapplication around month 10.* ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 2-4 weeks after complete submission. - **Delivery**: Free shipment to your home or doctor's office/pharmacy. - **Refills**: **Reauthorization required** annually; reapply at month 10. Your doctor may need to confirm ongoing need. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Bydureon BCise**: A **biosimilar alternative** covered by the same program—ask your doctor if switching works. - Other AstraZeneca programs like AZ&Me for Medicare. - General resources: NeedyMeds.org, RxAssist.org, or state programs. - Simplefill or patient advocates at (877) 386-0206 for personalized help. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of early 2026. Program details like income limits can change—**always contact AstraZeneca directly at (877) 386-0206** or check official sites for latest info. Not medical advice; consult your healthcare provider for treatment decisions. AstraZeneca evaluates applications case-by-case; approval isn't guaranteed.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026