Cubicin

Indicated For

MRSA skin infections, bacteremia

About This Medication

# Merck Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Cubicin (daptomycin) at Low or No Cost Cubicin (daptomycin) is an injectable antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, such as complicated skin infections, bloodstream infections, and infections related to heart valves. The **Merck Patient Assistance Program** provides this medication **free of charge** to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients in the United States who cannot afford it due to financial need.[1][2][4] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? To qualify, you must meet **all** these criteria: - Reside in the US or a US territory (no citizenship required).[1][4] - Have a valid prescription for Cubicin from a US-licensed healthcare provider.[1] - Lack prescription coverage through private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs, veterans assistance, or other programs—**or** have special financial/medical hardship if underinsured.[3][4] - Demonstrate financial need, typically household income at or below approximately **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** (e.g., ~$79,800 for individuals, ~$108,200 for couples, ~$165,000 for families of 4, based on program examples).[4] **Important exclusions**: You cannot qualify if your insurance or employer requires/encourages applying to this program as a condition for coverage, or if they deny benefits based on PAP denial.[3] ## About Cubicin (daptomycin) **Cubicin** is a once-daily IV or IM antibiotic that targets **gram-positive bacteria**, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). It's FDA-approved for adults and children (for specific uses) with conditions like: - **Bacteremia** (bacteria in the blood) - **Right-sided endocarditis** (heart valve infection) - **Complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI)** Common side effects include muscle pain, nausea, diarrhea, and elevated kidney function tests. Always follow your doctor's instructions, as dosing is weight-based (e.g., 4-6 mg/kg daily). This program helps ensure access without cost barriers for those who qualify.[9] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Merck PAP bases eligibility on household income, often up to **400% FPL**, with medical expenses potentially deductible. Exact thresholds aren't always published but align with guidelines like those for other Merck products. Use the table below for estimates (2026 FPL approximations; verify current levels at MerckHelps.com).[4][6][8] | Household Size | Max Annual Income (approx. 400% FPL) | Notes | |---------------|-------------------------------------|-------| | **1 (Individual)** | $60,000 - $79,800 | Base guideline; deductions possible [4] | | **2 (Couple)** | $81,000 - $108,200 | Household total [4] | | **3** | $102,000 - $140,000 | Add ~$21,000 per person [8] | | **4** | $123,000 - $165,000 | Families of 4 example [4] | | **5+** | Add ~$21,000 per additional | Contact program for exacts [1] | **Notes**: Income includes all household sources. Program may request proof (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs). Audits occur periodically.[1][5] ## Insurance Requirements - **Primarily for uninsured**: No private insurance, Medicare Part D, Medicaid, VA benefits, or other coverage for Cubicin.[4] - **Underinsured exception**: Attest to financial/medical hardship; program reviews case-by-case.[4] - **Medicare patients**: Generally ineligible unless no coverage and hardship proven. Vaccines for 65+ may have separate rules.[3] - Alternative funding programs that mandate PAP application disqualify you.[3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check eligibility**: Visit MerckHelps.com or call **800-727-5400** (8 AM-8 PM ET, Mon-Fri).[2][3] 2. **Download form**: Get the enrollment form from MerckHelps.com (under Cubicin or general PAP).[1][2][5] 3. **Complete patient sections**: Fill Section 1 (personal info, income), sign/date Sections 2-3. Include **proof of income** (e.g., 1040, W-2, pay stubs) and **valid prescription**.[1][8] 4. **Doctor completes**: Prescriber fills Sections 4-5 (diagnosis, prescription), signs/dates.[1] 5. **Submit**: Mail **original form** (no copies) to Merck PAP address on form. Multiple methods possible (mail, fax for some).[1][5] 6. **Track status**: Call 800-727-5400.[3] **Tip**: Use the checklist on MerckHelps.com for completeness.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Typically **less than 7 business days** if complete; up to **2 weeks** standard. Urgent? Call for help.[5][7][8] - **Approval**: Up to **1 year** of medication per application.[4] - **Delivery**: Shipped free to your home or doctor's office.[program details] - **Refills**: Reapply annually or as needed with new form.[4][5] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Call 800-727-5400 to discuss reasons (e.g., income, insurance).[3] - **Other programs**: Check RxAssist.org, NeedyMeds.org, or state assistance. No biosimilars for Cubicin listed.[program details][6] - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or **HealthWell Foundation** for copay help if underinsured. - **Generic daptomycin** may be available via 340B clinics or hospital programs. - **Speak to your doctor** about treatment alternatives like vancomycin or linezolid. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available program details as of latest updates. Eligibility, income thresholds, and processes can change—**always verify directly with Merck PAP at 800-727-5400 or MerckHelps.com**. Not medical advice; consult your healthcare provider for treatment decisions. Merck reserves audit rights and may request more docs.[1][5] Program not guaranteed; free meds subject to availability. (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026