Januvia

Indicated For

type 2 diabetes

About This Medication

# Merck Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Januvia (sitagliptin) at Low or No Cost Januvia (sitagliptin) is a prescription medication used to help manage type 2 diabetes by improving blood sugar control alongside diet and exercise. The **Merck Patient Assistance Program** offers **Januvia at no cost** to eligible uninsured or underinsured US residents who meet specific criteria, including income limits and lack of prescription coverage.[1][9] ## About Januvia (sitagliptin) **Januvia** is a tablet taken once daily to treat **type 2 diabetes** in adults. It belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors, which work by increasing insulin release and decreasing glucose production in the liver after meals. Unlike some diabetes drugs, it does not typically cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when used alone. Common side effects include upper respiratory infections, headaches, and stomach upset. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report any serious side effects like pancreatitis symptoms (severe abdominal pain).[1] This program helps patients who cannot afford their medication due to financial hardship, providing free supplies directly shipped to your home. It's one of several Merck support options, but this guide focuses on the Patient Assistance Program (PAP).[4] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? To qualify, you must meet **all** these requirements: - Be a **US resident** (including territories; citizenship not required) with a prescription for Januvia from a US-licensed healthcare provider.[1][9] - Have **no prescription insurance coverage**, including private insurance, HMOs, Medicaid, Medicare Part D, state programs, veterans assistance, or other social services.[1][2][9] - Demonstrate **financial need** based on household income guidelines (typically at or below 400-500% of the Federal Poverty Level, though exact household size thresholds vary; examples include ≤$79,800 for individuals, ≤$108,200 for couples, ≤$165,000 for families of 4; higher in AK/HI).[9] - Be unable to afford your medication out-of-pocket.[1] The program is for uninsured/underinsured patients facing high costs. If you have any form of coverage—even if it doesn't cover Januvia—you likely won't qualify.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are based on household size and Federal Poverty Level (FPL) percentages, adjusted annually. While exact figures aren't listed for all sizes on Januvia's page, Merck provides guidelines like these (call 1-800-727-5400 for your exact household or AK/HI limits).[9] | Household Size | Max Annual Income (Contiguous US) | |---------------|----------------------------------| | 1 | ≤$79,800 | | 2 | ≤$108,200 | | 3 | ~$136,000 (estimated) | | 4 | ≤$165,000 | | 5+ | Call for details | *Notes: Include all household income sources. Limits may be 400-500% FPL. Provide proof if requested (e.g., tax returns). Enrollment may be limited to a calendar year.*[9] ## Insurance Requirements You must be **uninsured for prescription drugs**—no private plans, Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, or similar. "Underinsured" means your coverage doesn't cover Januvia, but Merck verifies this strictly. If insured, explore Merck's Access Program for co-pay help instead.[1][2][4][9] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit MerckHelps.com or call **1-800-727-5400** (8 AM-8 PM ET, Mon-Fri) to confirm you qualify and request a brochure/application.[1][6] 2. **Download or Request Form**: Get the enrollment form online at MerckHelps.com or by phone. You can also apply fully online.[3][6] 3. **Complete Patient Section**: Fill out all fields (name, address, income, etc.) online or by hand in black ink. Both you and your doctor **must sign and date**.[1][3][5] 4. **Visit Your Doctor**: Take the form to your prescriber. They complete Section 4 with your Januvia prescription (up to 90-day supply, max 3 refills, up to 3 Merck meds per form). Doctor signs all required spots.[1][3] 5. **Submit the Form**: - **Mail**: Merck Patient Assistance Program, PO Box 1206, Wilkes Barre, PA 18703-1206.[1][6] - **Fax**: For Januvia: **1-800-419-8371** (other products: 1-800-498-5540).[3][6] - **Online**: At MerckHelps.com.[6] Use the checklist at MerckHelps.com to avoid delays.[6] A separate form is needed per patient; valid up to **12 months**.[1][5] ## Timeline and Delivery If complete and signed, processing takes **2-3 business days**. You'll get an email confirmation if you provided email. Approved meds are **shipped free to your home** (90-day supply + refills). Time varies if info is missing. New form needed after 12 months or year-end.[1][6] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Merck Access Program**: For insured patients—co-pay cards, coverage appeals (call product-specific support).[4] - **Other PAPs**: Simplefill (1-877-386-0206) matches you to programs.[7] - **RxHope** or NeedyMeds for listings. - **State programs**, GoodRx discounts, or patient foundations. - **Generic sitagliptin** if available (check with doctor).[7] Reapply if circumstances change, or appeal with more docs.[6] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available Merck program details as of latest sources. Eligibility, income limits, and processes can change—**always verify directly with Merck at 1-800-727-5400 or MerckHelps.com**. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment; program doesn't guarantee approval. Merck may audit/monitor applications. Free meds provided through Merck Patient Assistance Program, Inc.[1][3][9] (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026