Isentress

Indicated For

HIV-1 infection, AIDS

About This Medication

# Merck Patient Assistance Program Guide: Getting Isentress at Low Cost ## About This Program The Merck Patient Assistance Program helps eligible patients access Isentress (raltegravir) at little to no cost. Isentress is a critical HIV-1 medication, and this program ensures financial barriers don't prevent you from getting the treatment you need. ## Who Can Apply? You may qualify if you meet these criteria: **Insurance Status** You are uninsured or underinsured without coverage through: - Private insurance - HMOs - Medicaid - Medicare - State pharmacy assistance programs - Veterans assistance programs - Other social service agency support If you have insurance but face special circumstances of financial or medical hardship, you may still qualify. **Income Requirements** Income limits vary based on your household size and state. The program evaluates each application individually. Contact the program at (800) 727-5400 to confirm whether your income qualifies, or ask during the application process. ## What You'll Receive Approved patients receive: - Free or low-cost Isentress medication - A savings card option for additional discounts (if you have insurance) - Ongoing support and medication refills ## How to Apply: 4 Simple Steps **Step 1: Gather Required Documents** - Completed enrollment form with all fields filled out - Proof of household income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements) - Proof of uninsured or underinsured status - A valid government-issued ID **Step 2: Get Your Doctor's Signature** Your prescriber must complete and sign the enrollment form. Ask your doctor's office to help with this step—they can often submit it directly to Merck. **Step 3: Sign and Submit** You must sign the enrollment form, confirming the information is accurate. Submit your complete application to: Merck Patient Assistance Program Online: https://www.merckhelps.com/ISENTRESS Phone: (800) 727-5400 You can apply online, by phone, or by mail. Staff can guide you through the entire process. **Step 4: Wait for Approval** Merck will review your application and contact you with a decision. Once approved, you'll receive instructions on how to get your medication. ## Timeline - **Application processing:** Allow 5-10 business days for a decision - **First refill:** Reauthorization is required annually - **Ongoing access:** As long as you remain eligible and reauthorize each year ## Important Details **Annual Reauthorization** You must reauthorize your enrollment each year to continue receiving assistance. Merck will contact you before your authorization expires. **No Biosimilar Substitutions** This program covers brand Isentress only. Generic raltegravir may be covered under different assistance options—ask Merck or your pharmacist. **Privacy Protection** All information you provide is kept confidential and used only to process your application. ## If You're Having Trouble **Denied Application?** If your application is denied, ask Merck to explain the reason. You may be able to reapply if your circumstances change or if you can provide additional documentation. **Need Help Applying?** Call (800) 727-5400. Program staff can: - Answer eligibility questions - Help you complete forms - Walk you through the application - Provide documents in other languages **Changing Insurance** If your coverage changes, notify Merck immediately. You may become ineligible for the patient assistance program if you gain insurance coverage. ## Next Steps 1. **Call (800) 727-5400** to confirm your eligibility and ask questions 2. **Visit https://www.merckhelps.com/ISENTRESS** to start your application online 3. **Contact your doctor's office** to request their signature on the enrollment form 4. **Submit your complete application** with all required documents Don't delay starting your HIV treatment because of cost. This program exists to help you access the medication you need. Reach out today.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026