Megace

Indicated For

Appetite stimulant, breast cancer, endometrial cancer

About This Medication

# Strativa Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Megace (megestrol acetate) at Low or No Cost Megace (megestrol acetate) is a prescription medication commonly used to stimulate appetite and promote weight gain in patients experiencing severe malnutrition or cachexia due to conditions like cancer or AIDS. The **Strativa Patient Assistance Program** offers this important drug at low or no cost to eligible uninsured patients struggling with high medication expenses.[1][2] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? This program is designed for **U.S. residents** facing financial hardship who lack prescription insurance coverage. Key eligibility factors include: - **Income limits** based on Federal Poverty Level (FPL). - **No prescription coverage** from private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or Medicare Part D. - A valid prescription from a healthcare provider. Qualifying helps ensure that patients who need Megace can access it without the full retail burden, which can be substantial.[2] ## About Megace (megestrol acetate) **Megace** is an oral suspension or tablet form of megestrol acetate, a synthetic progestin hormone. It works by mimicking progesterone to boost appetite, increase body weight, and sometimes manage certain hormone-sensitive cancers like breast or endometrial cancer. Typical uses include treating anorexia, cachexia, or unexplained weight loss in adults with AIDS or cancer. It's available as standard Megace and **Megace ES** (an extended-release suspension for easier dosing). **Important notes:** Always take as prescribed. Common side effects may include weight gain, nausea, or fluid retention; serious risks like blood clots require medical monitoring. Discuss with your doctor if you have diabetes, heart disease, or are pregnant.[1][2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility hinges on **gross annual household income** at or below **200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** for standard Megace. **Megace ES** allows up to **300% FPL**. No specific thresholds for household size are listed, so use FPL charts (updated annually by HHS) to calculate. Here's a sample table for 2026 FPL guidelines (approximate; verify current at aspe.hhs.gov): | Household Size | 200% FPL (Standard Megace) | 300% FPL (Megace ES) | |----------------|----------------------------|-----------------------| | 1 person | $30,120 | $45,180 | | 2 people | $40,880 | $61,320 | | 3 people | $51,640 | $77,460 | | 4 people | $62,400 | $93,600 | *Add ~$10,760 (200%) or ~$16,140 (300%) per additional person.* Income includes wages, benefits, etc. Proof required.[2] ## Insurance Requirements You **must not have any prescription coverage** for Megace through: - Private insurance. - Government programs like **Medicare, Medicaid, or Medicare Part D**.[2] If you have coverage, explore other options like manufacturer copay cards or state programs first. Uninsured patients or those with expired coverage may qualify.[1][2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a prescription:** Ask your doctor to prescribe Megace and discuss the Strativa program. 2. **Contact the program:** Call **(800) 589-0841** to start. Patients, doctors, or advocates can initiate.[2] 3. **Download or request form:** Applications available via phone, fax ((973) 644-3308), or online for prescribers (rxhope.com).[1][2] 4. **Complete the form:** Both **patient** and **healthcare provider** must sign and date.[2] 5. **Gather documents:** - Proof of income (e.g., 1040 tax form, 1099, pay stubs x3, SSA benefits statement, award letters, bank deposits).[2] 6. **Submit:** Mail or fax to program address on form. Do not send to third-party sites.[2] 7. **Wait for approval:** Expect 5-7 business days processing.[2] **Tip:** Have your doctor handle if possible—prescribers can apply online for linked drugs like Megace.[1] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing:** 5-7 business days after complete submission.[2] - **Delivery:** Free medication mailed to your **healthcare provider's office** (not directly to patient, per some sources; confirm via phone).[2] - Pick up from your doctor. Reauthorization needed for refills.[2] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Other PAPs:** Check rxhope.com or needymeds.org for Megace listings; Prescription Hope offers access for $60/month fee (income up to ~$200k family).[8] - **Low-income clinics** or **state pharmaceutical aid**. - **Generic megestrol acetate** via discount cards (GoodRx). - **Patient advocacy groups** like Partnership for Prescription Assistance (helpingpatients.org).[3] - If insured, explore copay assistance (not available for government insurance).[6] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of latest sources. Eligibility, guidelines, and processes can change—**always verify directly with Strativa at (800) 589-0841**.[1][2] Not medical advice; consult your healthcare provider. Strativa/Endo Pharmaceuticals not affiliated with this guide. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026