Precose

Indicated For

Type 2 diabetes

About This Medication

# Bayer Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Precose at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The Bayer Patient Assistance Program helps eligible patients who cannot afford their medications get Precose (acarbose) at no cost or greatly reduced cost. Precose is used to help manage Type 2 Diabetes by controlling blood sugar levels. If you're struggling to pay for this medication, this program may be able to help. ## What is Precose? Precose (acarbose) is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor medication prescribed to help control blood sugar in people with Type 2 Diabetes. It works by slowing the digestion of carbohydrates, which helps prevent sudden spikes in blood glucose levels after meals. Your doctor may have prescribed this medication as part of your diabetes management plan. ## Who Can Qualify? You may be eligible for the Bayer Patient Assistance Program if you: - Have been prescribed Precose by your doctor - Are a U.S. resident - Have a household income at or below the program's threshold (see income table below) - Do not have prescription insurance coverage - Are unable to afford your medication ## Income Eligibility The Bayer Patient Assistance Program uses household income limits to determine eligibility. Income thresholds vary based on your household size. While the exact limits may adjust annually, here's a general guide: | Household Size | Maximum Annual Income | |---|---| | 1 person | Varies (contact program) | | 2 people | Varies (contact program) | | 3 people | Varies (contact program) | | 4 people | Varies (contact program) | | 5+ people | Varies (contact program) | **Note:** Income limits change yearly and may be based on federal poverty guidelines. Call the program directly to confirm current thresholds for your household size. ## Insurance Requirements This patient assistance program is specifically designed for people **without prescription insurance coverage**. If you have prescription drug insurance (including Medicare Part D), you must have already reached your coverage gap or be ineligible for other reasons to qualify for this program. ## How to Apply: Step-by-Step ### Step 1: Gather Required Documents Before you call, collect the following: - **Proof of Income:** Recent pay stubs, tax returns, Social Security statements, unemployment benefits documentation, or other proof of current income - **Doctor's Signature:** Your doctor must sign an application form or verification letter - **Insurance Information:** Confirmation that you have no prescription drug insurance, or proof that you're unable to access coverage - **Identification:** Your Social Security Number and photo ID - **Prescription Information:** Your current Precose prescription details ### Step 2: Contact the Program **Call:** 1-800-998-9180 - Have your documents ready when you call - A program representative will ask about your household income and medical situation - They will explain eligibility requirements and next steps - They can answer questions about the application process - **Best time to call:** Weekday business hours (the program is typically busier on Mondays) ### Step 3: Complete the Application - The representative may complete much of the application over the phone - You'll need to: - Confirm your household income and household size - Provide proof of income documentation - Have your doctor sign verification of your prescription - Authorize the program to ship your medication ### Step 4: Submit Documentation - Fax or mail required documents as directed by the program representative - Keep copies for your records - Note any reference numbers provided ### Step 5: Wait for Approval - The program typically processes applications within 4-8 weeks - You'll receive notification of approval or denial - If approved, your medication will be shipped directly to you or your doctor's office ## Timeline and Medication Delivery **Processing Time:** Typically 4-8 weeks from submission of complete application **Delivery Options:** - Medication can be shipped directly to your home - Medication can be shipped to your physician's office - You'll have the option to choose during the application process **What to Expect After Approval:** - You'll receive a confirmation notice - Your Precose will be shipped within 1-2 weeks - Shipments typically come via mail - You may receive a 3-month supply at a time ## Reauthorization Your assistance **must be reauthorized every 12 months**. - The program will contact you approximately 30 days before your current assistance expires - You'll need to recertify your income and medical need - The process is usually simpler than the initial application - Don't let your assistance lapse—contact the program if you don't hear from them ## What If You're Denied? If your application is denied, you have options: **Ask Why:** - Request a specific explanation of the denial - Common reasons include income over the limit or having active insurance coverage **Explore Alternatives:** - Ask your doctor about generic acarbose, which may be less expensive - Check if you qualify for state pharmaceutical assistance programs - Visit NeedyMeds.org for additional resources - Ask your doctor for samples - Look into state Medicaid programs if your income has changed - Inquire about community health center programs ## Important Notes - **This is a real program:** Bayer genuinely offers this assistance. Do not use unofficial websites or services claiming to help with this program—go directly to the official number. - **No hidden fees:** Legitimate patient assistance is free. Never pay to apply. - **Your privacy matters:** All information is confidential and used only for program purposes. - **Keep your doctor informed:** Let your healthcare provider know you're applying for assistance. ## Legal Disclaimer This guide provides general information about the Bayer Patient Assistance Program for Precose. Eligibility requirements, income limits, and program details are subject to change. Always verify current information directly with the program before applying. This guide does not guarantee approval or medication provision. Consult with your healthcare provider about your diabetes management and medication needs. The Bayer Patient Assistance Program operates under specific terms and conditions—ask the program representative for complete program details. ## Additional Resources - **NeedyMeds.org:** Search for additional assistance programs - **Diabetes.org:** American Diabetes Association resources - **Your Doctor's Office:** May have additional samples or resources - **Local Health Department:** May offer diabetes management support programs - **211.org:** Search for local health and human services resources ## Contact Information **Bayer Patient Assistance Program** Phone: 1-800-998-9180 Program Covers: Nimotop & Precose Call today to see if you qualify for free or low-cost Precose!

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026