Fosamax

Indicated For

osteoporosis, Paget's disease

About This Medication

# Merck Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Fosamax (Alendronate) at Low or No Cost Fosamax (alendronate) is a prescription medication used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and to increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis. This **Merck Patient Assistance Program** provides **Fosamax free of charge** to eligible patients, primarily those without insurance coverage who cannot afford their medication[1][2][3]. ## About Fosamax and Why Assistance Matters **Fosamax**, the brand name for alendronate, belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates. It works by slowing bone loss to help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures, especially in the hip and spine. It's typically taken once weekly as a 70 mg tablet, on an empty stomach with water, and patients must remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking it to avoid esophageal irritation. Osteoporosis affects millions, particularly older adults, and the cost of Fosamax without assistance can be hundreds of dollars per month. The **Merck Patient Assistance Program** (also called Merck PAP) bridges this gap by offering the medication **completely free** to those who qualify, removing financial barriers to essential treatment[1][5][6]. This program is private, confidential, and focuses on U.S. residents in need. ## Who Qualifies for the Program? To be eligible, you generally must meet **all three** key criteria: - Be a **U.S. resident** (including Alaska and Hawaii, with adjusted income limits) with a prescription for Fosamax from a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider[5][7]. - **Lack prescription drug coverage**, such as private insurance, HMOs, Medicaid, Medicare Part D, state programs, veterans assistance, or other social services[2][3][7]. - **Cannot afford** the medication without help, often tied to income guidelines[1][5]. **Exceptions apply**: Even if you have some insurance or slightly exceed income limits, you may qualify with **special circumstances** of financial or medical hardship. Attest to this on the application, and program staff can review case-by-case[3][6][7]. Medicare Part D recipients may be eligible on a case-by-case basis[6]. The program prioritizes the uninsured but offers flexibility. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown The program has **income limits**, typically based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), though exact figures aren't publicly listed online and vary by household size, location (higher in AK/HI), and year. Call **1-800-727-5400** for current thresholds[7]. Generally, eligibility is for those below set upper limits, with hardship exceptions. Here's a simplified example table based on common PAP structures (confirm exacts via phone, as they adjust annually): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (Contiguous U.S., approx. 400-500% FPL) | Alaska/Hawaii Adjustment | |----------------|-------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | Up to ~$60,000 | Call for details | | 2 (Couple) | Up to ~$80,000 | Call for details | | 3 | Up to ~$100,000 | Call for details | | 4 | Up to ~$120,000 | Call for details | *Notes: These are estimates; actual limits may be lower or adjusted for COLI. Hardship cases can exceed limits[3][6][7].* ## Insurance Requirements The program is designed for the **uninsured** or those whose insurance **does not cover Fosamax**. Examples of disqualifying coverage include: - Private insurance or HMOs - Medicaid, Medicare Part D - State pharmacy aid, VA benefits, or social services[2][7]. If insured, explore **Merck Access Program** first for co-pay help or coverage questions (call 855-257-3932, 8 AM-8 PM ET, Mon-Fri)[3]. PAN Foundation or Patient Advocate Foundation may assist insured patients with copays up to 300-400% FPL[4]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm Eligibility**: Discuss with your doctor. Call **1-800-727-5400** (8 AM-8 PM ET) for a brochure, income details, and application[7]. Or visit **merckhelps.com** to download[1][3]. 2. **Get the Form**: Doctor and patient must complete/sign the application. Prescribers can apply online for some products[6]. 3. **Gather Documents**: Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), prescription, proof of no insurance (if applicable). Original app mailed—**no faxes**[6]. Hardship letter if seeking exception. 4. **Submit**: Mail to address on form. Single app covers up to **1 year** of Fosamax[3][6]. 5. **Follow Up**: Program reps assist; available via phone[3]. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Varies; expect 2-4 weeks typically for PAPs, but call for updates. - **Supply**: **90-day supply** with up to 3 refills (total 1 year). Refills via toll-free number[6]. - **Delivery**: Shipped free to your home or doctor's office[1][2]. Expedited for some products[7]. Reapply yearly or as needed[3][6]. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Request review for hardship[3]. - **Merck Access Program**: Co-pay aid (855-257-3932)[3]. - **Other PAPs**: PAN Foundation (copays, 300-400% FPL), Patient Advocate Foundation (866-512-3861)[4]. - **Extra Help/LIS**: For Medicare, apply via SSA (1-800-772-1213)[4]. - **Generic alendronate**: Cheaper; pharmacy discounts or coupons[4]. - **State programs** or 340B clinics. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. Eligibility, income limits, and processes can change—**always verify with Merck at 1-800-727-5400 or merckhelps.com**[1][7]. Not medical advice; consult your doctor. Merck not associated with third-party sites. Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026