Mevacor

Indicated For

hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia

About This Medication

# Patient Guide: Getting Help Paying for Mevacor (Lovastatin) ## Important Information About Mevacor Assistance Mevacor (lovastatin) is a statin medication used to lower high cholesterol and triglycerides. While Merck & Co., Inc., the manufacturer, does not currently have an active patient assistance program (PAP) for Mevacor, there are several other ways to reduce your out-of-pocket costs for this medication. ## About Mevacor Mevacor is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, commonly called a statin. It works by blocking an enzyme your liver needs to make cholesterol. By lowering cholesterol levels, Mevacor helps reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Many people take this medication long-term as part of their heart health plan. ## Why There's No Current Manufacturer Program Merck does not actively promote a patient assistance program for Mevacor at this time. This may be because lovastatin is available in generic form, which is typically much less expensive than brand-name medications. However, this doesn't mean you're without options for affordable access. ## Option 1: Generic Lovastatin (Most Affordable) The best way to save money on this medication is to ask your doctor or pharmacist about **generic lovastatin**. Generic versions are chemically identical to Mevacor but cost significantly less—often 80-90% cheaper. Most insurance plans cover generic statins as a first-line treatment. If cost is your concern, generic lovastatin should be your first choice. ## Option 2: Manufacturer Savings Cards Merck offers savings programs and cards that may be available for their medications. Visit **www.merck.com** or call their customer service to ask about current savings offers or discount cards that might apply to your prescription. These cards can sometimes reduce your copay to $4-$10 per fill, depending on your insurance. ## Option 3: Pharmacy Discount Programs Many pharmacies offer their own discount programs: - **GoodRx**: Visit goodrx.com or use the free app to compare prices at different pharmacies and get coupons - **SingleCare**: Offers discounts on prescriptions with or without insurance - **Walmart/Target/Kroger pharmacies**: Often have generic statin programs ($4-$10 for 30-day supplies) - **Amazon Pharmacy**: May offer competitive pricing with home delivery ## Option 4: State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs Most states have programs to help uninsured and underinsured residents afford prescription medications. These programs vary by state but often have income eligibility requirements. To find your state's program: **Visit:** www.needymeds.org and search for your state **Or contact:** Your state health department or Medicaid office ## Option 5: 340B Program and Community Health Centers If you have low income or no insurance, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community health centers may offer prescriptions at reduced or no cost through the 340B drug pricing program. **Find a center near you:** www.findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov ## Option 6: Non-Profit Organizations Several organizations help patients afford cardiovascular medications: - **The American Heart Association**: Information on heart health resources - **Patient Advocate Foundation**: Helps patients navigate medication costs - **NeedyMeds.org**: Comprehensive database of patient assistance programs - **GiveRx.org**: Connects patients with medication assistance ## Income Eligibility While Merck doesn't have an active PAP, state programs and non-profit assistance typically use income guidelines. Most programs serve households up to 200-400% of the federal poverty level. Here's a general reference: | Household Size | Approximate Maximum Income (200% FPL) | Approximate Maximum Income (400% FPL) | |---|---|---| | 1 person | $28,660 | $57,320 | | 2 people | $38,640 | $77,280 | | 3 people | $48,620 | $97,240 | | 4 people | $58,600 | $117,200 | | 5 people | $68,580 | $137,160 | | 6 people | $78,560 | $157,120 | *Note: These are 2024 federal poverty guidelines. Individual programs may vary.* ## Insurance Requirements Most assistance options work with or without insurance: - **With insurance**: Savings cards and discount programs can supplement your coverage - **Without insurance**: You may qualify for state programs or community health center assistance - **Medicare/Medicaid**: Covered as part of your benefits; generic lovastatin should have minimal copay ## Step-by-Step: How to Get Affordable Mevacor ### Step 1: Ask About Generic Lovastatin Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about switching to generic lovastatin. This is usually the cheapest option. ### Step 2: Compare Pharmacy Prices Use GoodRx or SingleCare to compare prices at different pharmacies in your area. Prices vary significantly. ### Step 3: Check for Discount Programs Ask your pharmacy if they have a store loyalty program or discount plan for prescriptions. ### Step 4: Look Into State Programs Visit NeedyMeds.org and search for your state's pharmaceutical assistance program. ### Step 5: Find a Community Health Center (if uninsured) If you have no insurance and low income, find a federally qualified health center that can provide medications at reduced cost. ### Step 6: Apply for Assistance Once you've identified a program: - Gather required documents (proof of income, prescription from your doctor, proof of citizenship if required) - Submit application (online, by mail, or in person) - Wait for approval (typically 2-4 weeks) - Receive your medication ## What If You're Denied? If you don't qualify for a particular program: 1. **Try another program**: Many patients qualify for multiple assistance options 2. **Ask your doctor**: They may have samples or information about other resources 3. **Contact Merck directly**: Call 1-800-672-6372 to ask if any assistance is available 4. **Speak with a patient advocate**: Many hospitals and clinics have social workers who help find resources ## Expected Timeline and Delivery Timelines vary by program: - **Pharmacy discount programs**: Immediate (same day at pharmacy) - **State programs**: 2-4 weeks from application to approval - **Community health centers**: Same day or within 1-2 weeks - **Non-profit programs**: 1-3 weeks ## Tips to Reduce Costs Now - Ask for a 90-day supply instead of 30-day (often costs less per dose) - Request the generic version explicitly - Ask if your pharmacy has a "maintenance medication" program - Check if your employer offers a pharmacy discount benefit - Ask about patient assistance directly at your local pharmacy ## Important Reminders - **Don't stop taking your medication** to save money—talk to your doctor first - **Prices change frequently**—check multiple sources before filling - **Some programs have waiting periods**—apply early - **Keep documentation**—save proof of income and applications - **Reapply if needed**—some programs require annual renewal ## Contact Information for Key Resources - **NeedyMeds.org**: www.needymeds.org | Free, comprehensive database - **Merck Customer Service**: 1-800-672-6372 - **GoodRx**: www.goodrx.com - **SingleCare**: www.singlecare.com - **HRSA Health Centers**: www.findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov - **Your State Medicaid Office**: Visit your state health department website ## Legal Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medication plan. Program eligibility, benefits, and requirements change frequently. Verify current eligibility and application procedures directly with each program before applying. Merck & Co., Inc. does not endorse any third-party assistance programs mentioned here.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026