Entereg

Indicated For

postoperative ileus after bowel resection surgery

About This Medication

# Finding Affordable Access to Entereg (Alvimopan) ## Important Notice About Prescription Assistance Currently, there is no active manufacturer-sponsored prescription assistance program (PAP) directly available from GlaxoSmithKline for Entereg (alvimopan). However, this guide will help you explore alternative resources and options to access this medication at reduced or no cost. ## About Entereg (Alvimopan) Entereg is a prescription medication used to help restore normal bowel function after surgery, a condition called postoperative ileus. It works by blocking certain opioid receptors in the digestive system. This medication is typically prescribed for short-term use following abdominal or bowel surgery. ## Who May Qualify for Assistance While GlaxoSmithKline's direct assistance program is not currently active, you may still qualify for help through: - State pharmaceutical assistance programs - 340B drug pricing programs (for eligible institutions) - Disease-specific nonprofits and foundations - Hospital patient assistance programs - Community health center programs - Medicaid or other government programs - Discount pharmacy programs ## Income Eligibility Guidelines Since there is no active manufacturer program, income limits vary by program. Here's a general reference for common assistance programs: | Household Size | Typical Maximum Income Range | |---|---| | 1 person | $25,000 - $35,000 | | 2 people | $34,000 - $47,000 | | 3 people | $43,000 - $59,000 | | 4 people | $52,000 - $71,000 | | 5 people | $61,000 - $83,000 | | 6 people | $70,000 - $95,000 | | 7 people | $79,000 - $107,000 | | 8 people | $88,000 - $119,000 | *Note: These are approximate guidelines. Actual income limits vary significantly by program and location.* ## Insurance Requirements Alternative assistance programs typically have varying requirements: - Some programs help patients WITH insurance (filling gaps in coverage) - Some help UNINSURED patients - Some help UNDERINSURED patients with high out-of-pocket costs - Medicare and Medicaid eligibility may affect your options - Patient assistance does not typically replace insurance; it supplements it ## Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Assistance ### Step 1: Check Your Hospital's Patient Assistance Program Since Entereg is used in hospital settings for postoperative care, start by asking your hospital's case worker, social worker, or patient advocate about in-house assistance programs. Many hospitals have direct relationships with pharmaceutical manufacturers and can help reduce medication costs for post-operative medications. ### Step 2: Explore State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs Most states offer programs to help residents access medications. Visit your state's health department website or search "[Your State] pharmaceutical assistance program" to find eligibility requirements and apply. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. ### Step 3: Use NeedyMeds.org Visit www.needymeds.org and search for "alvimopan" or "Entereg." This comprehensive database lists available assistance programs, patient assistance programs, and discount options updated regularly. You can also call their helpline at 1-800-533-4925. ### Step 4: Contact GlaxoSmithKline Directly While no active manufacturer program is currently listed, circumstances change. Contact GlaxoSmithKline's Customer Service at 1-888-825-5249 to ask about: - Any newly launched assistance programs - Compassionate use options - Hospital partnership programs - Referrals to other resources ### Step 5: Investigate Disease-Specific Organizations Search for nonprofits focused on postoperative recovery, bowel health, or general medication assistance. Organizations like Patient Advocate Foundation or Partnership for Prescription Assistance may have resources or referrals. ### Step 6: Ask About Discount Programs Some patients access medications through prescription discount cards or programs like GoodRx, though these typically offer discounts rather than free medication. ## Required Documents While requirements vary by program, generally have ready: - Current prescription from your doctor - Proof of income (recent tax return, pay stubs, or financial statement) - Proof of residency (utility bill or lease) - Insurance card (if applicable) - Identification - Proof of citizenship or legal residency (for some programs) - Proof of medical need (can be provided by prescribing physician) ## Expected Timeline Processing times vary significantly: - **Hospital programs**: Often same-day or within 1-2 days - **State programs**: Typically 2-4 weeks - **Nonprofit programs**: Usually 1-3 weeks - **General assistance programs**: 4-8 weeks typical Since Entereg is used for acute post-operative care, discuss timing with your healthcare provider, as you may need the medication immediately while awaiting assistance approval. ## Delivery and Access Delivery methods vary: - Hospital-based programs: Medication provided at hospital - Pharmacy programs: Delivered to your local pharmacy for pickup - Mail delivery: Sent directly to your home - Direct shipment: Some programs send directly to prescribing physician Confirm delivery preferences when applying. ## What If Your Application Is Denied If denied, you have options: 1. **Appeal**: Ask why you were denied and whether you can appeal 2. **Try another program**: Income/insurance requirements vary; you may qualify elsewhere 3. **Ask your doctor**: Your prescribing physician may know additional resources or recommend alternatives 4. **Contact a patient advocate**: Hospital social workers or patient advocacy organizations can help navigate denials 5. **Explore payment plans**: Discuss payment plans directly with your pharmacy or hospital billing department ## Reauthorization Since Entereg is typically a short-term post-operative medication, reauthorization is usually not needed. However, if you require extended use, confirm renewal procedures with your specific assistance program. ## Important Reminders - Start the assistance process as soon as possible after surgery - Don't delay taking your medication while awaiting approval; discuss temporary solutions with your doctor - Be honest about your income and insurance status - Keep copies of all submitted documents - Some programs may have waiting periods or caps on total assistance - Your eligibility may change; inform programs of significant income changes ## Legal Disclaimer This guide provides general information about patient assistance options and is not medical or legal advice. Program eligibility, requirements, and availability change frequently. Always verify current information directly with programs before applying. Your healthcare provider should be involved in all decisions about your medication access. This information is current as of the publication date but may not reflect recent program changes. For the most up-to-date information, contact programs directly or speak with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026