Onglyza

Indicated For

type 2 diabetes

About This Medication

# Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Onglyza (saxagliptin) at Low or No Cost This guide explains how uninsured or underinsured patients can access **Onglyza (saxagliptin)** for free through the Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF). It covers eligibility, application steps, and key details to help you get started.[1][2][3] ## About Onglyza (saxagliptin) **Onglyza** is a prescription medication used to help control blood sugar levels in adults with **type 2 diabetes**, alongside diet and exercise. 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. It's typically taken once daily and is not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Always follow your doctor's instructions, as it may cause side effects like upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, or rare serious issues like pancreatitis or heart failure. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.[1] ## Who Qualifies for the BMSPAF Program? The BMSPAF provides free medications like Onglyza to eligible patients who meet specific financial and insurance criteria. Key requirements include: - Residing in the US or Puerto Rico and being 18 years or older.[3] - Household income below the program's limits (specific Federal Poverty Level (FPL) thresholds not publicly detailed; proof required).[1][2] - **No prescription insurance coverage**, including private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare Part D (with a limited exception), VA, military, or state programs—or if on Medicare Part D, out-of-pocket prescription costs must exceed 3% of annual household income.[1] - Treated as an outpatient (not inpatient).[1] - Prescription from a licensed US healthcare provider.[1][2] Meeting these does not guarantee approval, as the foundation reviews each case.[1] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown BMSPAF bases eligibility on total **annual household income** (wages, Social Security, pensions, child support, etc.) compared to program limits, typically tied to FPL. Exact percentages aren't specified online, but you must provide proof showing income is below thresholds. Medicare Part D patients qualify only if out-of-pocket drug costs exceed 3% of income.[1][2] Here's a general example of how FPL-based programs often work (confirm current limits via phone): | Household Size | Example Max Income (300% FPL, approx. 2026)* | |----------------|---------------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $45,180 | | 2 (Couple) | $61,320 | | 3 | $77,460 | | 4 | $93,600 | *Estimates based on 2026 FPL guidelines; add ~$16,140 per additional member. Actual BMSPAF limits may vary—call (800) 736-0003 to verify. Attach proof like 1040 tax return, W-2s, 1099s, pay stubs, or SSA-1099.[1][2] ## Insurance Requirements You **must not have insurance coverage** for the medication. Check "None" on the form if uninsured. List all insurances (Medicaid, Medicare A/B/D, VA, private, etc.). Medicare Part D exception: Provide pharmacy printout proving ≥3% income spent on out-of-pocket prescriptions.[1] If insured, explore BMS Access Support for copay help instead.[6][7] ## Step-by-Step Application Process BMSPAF offers **multiple application methods**: mail, fax, or phone request.[1][2][5] 1. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of residency (utility bill, etc.).[1] - Proof of income (tax return, pay stubs, SSA statement).[1][2] - Current Onglyza prescription (attach separately; do not staple).[1][2] - List of current medications.[1] - Medicare OOP report if applicable.[1] 2. **Complete the Form** (download from bmspaf.org or call): - **Patient Section**: Name, SSN (optional), DOB, address, household size/income, insurance status, signature/consent.[1] - **Provider Section**: Treatment details, prescription, facility/shipping info, prescriber signature.[1][2] 3. **Submit**: - Mail: PO Box 220769, Charlotte, NC 28222-0769 or PO Box 1058, Somerville, NJ 08876.[1][2] - Fax: (800) 736-1611 (no duplicates).[1][2] - Phone: (800) 736-0003 (Mon-Fri, request form).[1][4][5] It's **free** to apply; incomplete forms delay processing.[1][2] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing time varies (not specified; typically weeks). You'll receive mail notification of approval/denial.[2] Approved patients get a **90-day supply** shipped to doctor's office, healthcare facility, or patient's home (conflicting info; recent forms allow home).[1][2][3] Program lasts up to **1 year**; Medicare patients reapply January.[3] **Reauthorization required** annually or if status changes.[1][3] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **BMS Access Support**: Copay cards, coverage appeals for commercially insured.[6][7][8] - **RxHope** or **NeedyMeds**: Search other PAPs.[2] - **State programs**, Medicaid, or Medicare Extra Help. - **Generic saxagliptin** if available (no biosimilars listed).[1] - Generic DPP-4 alternatives like linagliptin (check other manufacturers' PAPs). Contact BMSPAF for denial reasons and reapply if circumstances change.[1] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of 2026. Eligibility rules, addresses, and forms can change—always verify with BMSPAF at (800) 736-0003 or bmspaf.org. Not medical/financial advice; consult your doctor and advisor. BMSPAF decides eligibility; approval not guaranteed. Report status changes immediately.[1][2][3]

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026