Isentress HD

Indicated For

HIV-1 infection

About This Medication

# Merck Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Isentress HD (raltegravir) at Low or No Cost Isentress HD (raltegravir) is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children. The **Merck Patient Assistance Program** provides this medication at no cost to eligible uninsured or underinsured US residents facing financial hardship who meet specific income and insurance criteria.[1][2][5] ## About Isentress HD (raltegravir) **Isentress HD** is a higher-dose formulation of raltegravir, an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that works by blocking HIV from multiplying in the body. It is typically taken twice daily with or without food and is used as part of a complete HIV treatment regimen. Common side effects may include headache, insomnia, nausea, and fatigue, but always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. This program helps ensure access for those who cannot afford it due to lack of insurance or high costs.[1][2] ## Who Qualifies? To qualify for the Merck Patient Assistance Program for **Isentress HD**, you must meet these key requirements: - Reside in the United States or a US territory (US citizenship not required).[1][5] - Have a valid prescription for Isentress HD from a US-licensed healthcare provider.[1][4] - Be uninsured or underinsured, without coverage from private insurance, HMOs, Medicaid, Medicare, state pharmacy programs, veterans assistance, or other social services.[1][3][4] - Meet income eligibility criteria based on household size and income (specific Federal Poverty Level (FPL) thresholds are not publicly disclosed but are verified by the program).[1][5] - Attest to financial and medical hardship if uninsured.[1] **Income Eligibility Breakdown** Specific income thresholds (e.g., percentages of FPL) are not detailed in program materials, as they are determined case-by-case and may require verification via credit report or supporting documents. The program checks eligibility electronically or reviews submitted proof. Here's a general overview based on typical patient assistance structures (contact the program for your exact situation): | Household Size | Estimated Max Income (Annual, USD) | Notes | |---------------|------------------------------------|-------| | Individual | Meets program criteria | Exact FPL % not specified; verified electronically or by docs[1][5] | | Couple | Meets program criteria | Household income considered[1][5] | | Family of 3 | Meets program criteria | Includes dependents[1][5] | | Family of 4+ | Meets program criteria | Scales with size; audits possible[1][3] | **Notes**: Income must align with program standards. No public FPL percentage listed (e.g., 400-500% common in similar programs, but confirm via 800-727-5400). Program may use credit reports (no impact on score).[5] ## Insurance Requirements The program is for **uninsured or underinsured patients** without prescription coverage from: - Private insurance or HMOs - Medicaid or Medicare - State pharmacy assistance - Veterans or other social services Individuals without insurance can qualify by attesting to **financial and medical hardship**. If you have any third-party coverage, you likely won't qualify. Special cases may apply—call to confirm.[1][3][4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit https://www.merckhelps.com/ISENTRESS or call (800) 727-5400 to confirm you qualify.[2][5] 2. **Download Form**: Get the enrollment form from merckhelps.com or request by phone.[1][2][5] 3. **Complete Patient Sections**: Fill Section 1 (personal info), sign and date Sections 2-3. Authorize income verification (electronic or provide one proof document like tax return, pay stubs, etc.).[1][5] 4. **Healthcare Provider Role**: Take to your US-licensed doctor. They complete Sections 4-5, include prescription, NPI number, sign/date.[1][5][6] 5. **Submit**: Mail original form (no copies) to Merck Patient Assistance Program. Multiple methods available (mail, fax for some; check site). For Isentress HD, use https://www.merckhelps.com/ISENTRESS.[1][3][5] 6. **Wait for Approval**: Processing typically under 7-14 business days if complete.[3][5] **Required Documents**: - Prescription from US-licensed provider - Completed, signed enrollment form (patient + physician) - Patient signature - Physician signature + NPI No additional docs needed initially, but audits may request proof.[3][5] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Less than 7 business days if complete; up to 2 weeks otherwise. Urgent needs? Call 800-727-5400.[3][5] - **Approval Duration**: Up to 12 months; reauthorization required annually or as needed.[6] - **Delivery**: Medication shipped free to your home address.[1] - **Refills**: Automatic if eligible; new app after 12 months.[6] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact program for reasons and resubmit with more info.[3] - **Other Programs**: Check RxHope, NeedyMeds, or PAN Foundation for HIV meds. State AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAP) often cover raltegravir. - **Manufacturer Access**: Merck Access Program (855-257-3932) for insured patients. - **Generic Raltegravir**: Lower-cost options may exist; discuss with doctor. - **Clinical Trials**: Search clinicaltrials.gov for HIV studies. Always consult your provider for alternatives. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of latest info. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change—verify directly with Merck at (800) 727-5400 or https://www.merckhelps.com/ISENTRESS. Not medical/financial advice. Merck reserves audit rights and may limit enrollment.[1][3][5] (Word count: 942)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026