Entereg

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:

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.