Mirena

Indicated For

Contraception, heavy menstrual bleeding

About This Medication

# ARCH (Access and Resources for Contraceptive Health) Patient Guide: How to Get Mirena (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) at Low or No Cost **Mirena is a hormone-releasing intrauterine device (IUD) used for long-term birth control, preventing pregnancy for up to **8 years** by releasing levonorgestrel locally in the uterus.** This **patient assistance program** from **Bayer** helps eligible low-income women access **Mirena** at no cost when they lack insurance coverage for birth control.[3][7][8] ## About Mirena and Why Assistance Matters **Mirena** (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system 52 mg) is a small, T-shaped **IUD** inserted by a healthcare provider to provide effective, reversible contraception. It thickens cervical mucus, thins the uterine lining, and may inhibit ovulation, offering **over 99% effectiveness**. Unlike daily pills, it's 'set it and forget it' for years, making it ideal for those wanting hassle-free protection. However, without insurance, the out-of-pocket cost can exceed **$1,000** including insertion—not covered by this program.[7] The **ARCH program** targets women facing financial barriers to this vital reproductive health option. Bayer's commitment extends beyond **Mirena** to include **Skyla** IUD, emphasizing access to quality contraception.[7] Note: This guide focuses on **patient assistance** for uninsured patients; insured individuals may qualify for Bayer's separate **Co-pay Savings Program** (paying just **$20** out-of-pocket, but not for government insurance).[2] ## Who Qualifies for ARCH? Eligibility centers on financial need and lack of coverage: - **U.S. resident** (including Puerto Rico) treated by a **U.S.-licensed healthcare provider**.[3][5] - **No prescription insurance coverage** specifically for birth control like **Mirena**.[3][8] - Meet **undisclosed income guidelines**—Bayer reviews case-by-case, often aligning with federal poverty levels (FPL) for low-income households. Exact thresholds aren't public, but similar Bayer programs require income verification.[3][5][8] - Not enrolled in government programs like **Medicare/Medicaid** for this medication (check **Co-pay** rules separately).[2] **ARCH** does **not** cover **insertion or removal fees** by providers—plan for those separately.[3] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Bayer keeps specific **ARCH income limits** private to allow flexible, case-by-case review, but they generally target **low-income** households without drug coverage. Comparable Bayer programs (e.g., US Patient Assistance Foundation) use **400% FPL** or similar, with electronic verification or proof required.[5] Here's a general **FPL reference table** (2026 estimates; confirm current via HHS.gov): | Household Size | 100% FPL | 200% FPL | 400% FPL | |----------------|----------|----------|----------| | 1 (Individual) | $15,060 | $30,120 | $60,240 | | 2 (Couple) | $20,440 | $40,880 | $81,760 | | 3 | $25,820 | $51,640 | $103,280| | 4 | $31,200 | $62,400 | $124,800| *Add ~$5,380 per additional person. ARCH likely falls at/near **200-400% FPL**; call to confirm.[3][5][8]* ## Insurance Requirements **Key requirement: No insurance coverage for Mirena/birth control.**[3][8] If underinsured (e.g., high deductibles excluding IUDs), you may qualify. **Government insurance** (Medicare, Medicaid, VA) typically disqualifies from **ARCH**; explore state programs instead. Private insurance? Check **copay card** at copayformirena.com.[2] **Bayer US Patient Assistance Foundation** offers broader free meds for uninsured/underinsured meeting income limits.[1][4][5] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Contact for Application:** Call **1-877-393-9071** or visit **www.ArchPatientAssistance.com** (if available; else Bayer's patientassistance.bayer.us).[3][7] 2. **Download/Fill Form:** Get the **ARCH application**—copiable, signed by **you and your doctor**.[3][5] 3. **Gather Docs:** Proof of residency, income (pay stubs, tax returns if requested), prescription details (strength, quantity, refills, directions).[3][5] 4. **Doctor Section:** Provider confirms diagnosis, **Mirena** need, no insurance coverage.[5] 5. **Submit:** **Mail** to P.O. Box 220908, Charlotte, NC 28222-0908 or **fax** 1-877-229-1421. Bayer Foundation alternative: Fax 1-866-575-6568 / Mail P.O. Box 5670, Louisville, KY 40255.[3][5] 6. **Wait for Review:** Complete apps only; use checklist.[5] ## Timeline and Delivery **Processing:** 2-4 weeks typical for patient assistance (case-by-case).[5] Approval notifications via mail/phone. If approved, **Mirena** ships free directly to **your doctor's office** or pharmacy—not home.[3] **Reauthorization** likely needed every ~5-8 years (Mirena duration); check at refill.[7] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Bayer Co-pay Card:** $20 copay for commercial insurance (max program limit).[2] - **Bayer US Patient Assistance Foundation:** Broader free Bayer meds for uninsured/low-income.[1][4][5] - **State/Federal Programs:** Medicaid, Title X clinics for free/low-cost IUDs. - **Biosimilars/Generics:** None listed for Mirena.[7] - **Other IUDs:** **Paragard** (non-hormonal) or **Kyleena** via similar aid. - **RxHope/RxResource:** Search aggregated PAPs.[3][8] ## Important Disclaimer This guide synthesizes public info as of 2026; **programs change—verify directly with Bayer** at 1-877-393-9071.[3] Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for **Mirena** suitability (risks: perforation, expulsion, PID). Bayer may audit/deny anytime. Void where prohibited. Eligibility not guaranteed.[2][5] *Word count: ~950*

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026