Qsymia

Indicated For

obesity, overweight with weight-related conditions

About This Medication

# VIVUS Qsymia Savings Programs Patient Guide: How to Get Qsymia at Low or No Cost Qsymia (phentermine and topiramate extended-release capsules CIV) is a prescription medication used for weight management, and VIVUS offers several affordable cash-pay savings options through pharmacies and home delivery programs, typically costing $69-$99 per month without needing traditional patient assistance qualification based on income or insurance.[1][2][3][5][6] ## About Qsymia **Qsymia** is the leading non-injectable branded weight loss medication in the U.S., combining phentermine (an appetite suppressant) and topiramate (which helps with satiety). It is FDA-approved for use with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to help reduce excess body weight and maintain weight loss in adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with obesity, or in adults who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.[1][2] Qsymia comes in extended-release capsules with different dose strengths for titration (gradual increase) to minimize side effects. Common side effects in adults include tingling in the hands or feet (paresthesia), dizziness, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth. In pediatric patients 12 years and older, they may include depression, dizziness, joint pain, fever, flu, and ankle sprain. Important warnings include risk of birth defects (especially cleft lip/palate), so women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception and have negative pregnancy tests. Do not use if you have glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, recent MAOI use, or allergies to ingredients. Always read the Medication Guide, Full Prescribing Information, and Risk of Birth Defects brochure.[1] Qsymia is not a "quick fix" but part of a comprehensive lifestyle plan. Clinical studies show average weight loss of 8-10% of body weight over a year when combined with diet and exercise, outperforming either drug alone.[1] ## Who Qualifies for Savings Programs? Unlike traditional patient assistance programs (PAPs) that require low-income proof, VIVUS Qsymia savings are **cash-pay only** and open to almost anyone with a valid prescription—no income limits, no FPL (Federal Poverty Level) thresholds, and no insurance needed. These are discount programs, not free medication.[1][2][3][5][6] **Key eligibility notes:** - Must have a prescription from a healthcare provider. - Cash payment only; **not eligible if using insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or any public/private coverage**—claims under these are excluded.[1][2][5][6] - Available nationwide via select pharmacies or home delivery. - For home delivery (Qsymia Engage), must be 18+ to register, though Qsymia is approved for 12+.[6] - Programs can change; VIVUS reserves the right to modify or discontinue.[6] These options make Qsymia one of the most affordable branded weight loss drugs, especially compared to injectables like Ozempic or Wegovy.[1] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown No income verification is required. Here's a comparison of costs across programs: | Program | Location | 30-Day Supply | 90-Day Supply | Notes | |---------|----------|---------------|---------------|-------| | Costco Member Prescription Program | Nationwide Costco Pharmacies | <$99 | N/A | Prescription required; cash only.[1] | | Costco Hawaii Special | Hawaii Costco Pharmacies (specific locations) | $69 | N/A | Through Aug 31, 2026.[2] | | Qsymia Engage Home Delivery | Nationwide (select states for 90-day) | $89 (includes titration packs) | $210 ($70/month) + shipping | Cash only; ships to home.[3][5][6] | | Retail Savings Card | Participating retail pharmacies | Varies (monthly savings) | N/A | Sign up online.[4] | | LifeLine Specialty Pharmacy (cash price if no coverage) | Home delivery | $89 | $210 ($70/month) + shipping | After benefits check (but cash for savings).[5] | Costs are fixed and low, providing equal access regardless of household size or income.[1][2][3][5][6] ## Insurance Requirements **These are cash-pay discounts—no insurance accepted or required.** Public programs (Medicare, Medicaid) or private insurance claims disqualify you from these prices. If insured, contact LifeLine Specialty Pharmacy for benefits investigation—they may help get coverage, but cash prices apply if denied ($89/30-day, $210/90-day + shipping).[3][5] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get Prescribed:** Talk to your doctor about Qsymia. They’ll determine if it’s right, provide a prescription (30-day or 90-day), and counsel on risks like birth defects. 2. **Choose Your Savings Option:** - **Costco:** Take prescription to any Costco Pharmacy (nationwide or Hawaii locations).[1][2] - **Home Delivery:** Visit qsymiaengage.com (18+), register, upload prescription, pay cash + shipping.[6] - **Retail Savings Card:** Go to qsymia.com/patient/multiple-ways-to-save/savings-card, sign up, get digital card for local pharmacy.[4] - **LifeLine Specialty:** Doctor or patient contacts for fulfillment (benefits check optional).[3][5] 3. **Fill Prescription:** Present prescription and pay cash at pharmacy or online. No forms or proof needed beyond Rx. 4. **Receive Medication:** Pharmacy pickup or home ship (1-2 weeks typical; see FAQ for details). No applications, approvals, or documents required—immediate access with Rx![1][3][4][6] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing:** Instant at pharmacy; 3-10 business days for home delivery (includes verification/shipping).[5][6] - **Delivery:** In-store pickup (Costco/retail) or mailed to home (Engage/LifeLine, + shipping fee ~$10-20).[5][6] - Refills: Bring new Rx or e-prescribe; 90-day supplies reduce trips.[6] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible These programs don't "deny" based on income—they're open access. If using insurance: - Ask LifeLine for coverage help.[3][5] - Generic phentermine/topiramate (not combined like Qsymia). - Other weight loss options: orlistat (Alli/Xenical), liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic if covered), bariatric surgery, or lifestyle programs. - Check NeedyMeds.org or RxAssist.org for true PAPs (though none listed for Qsymia).[general knowledge] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Costs/prices as of latest info (e.g., 2025-2026 announcements); confirm current details with VIVUS (1-888-998-4887), Costco, or qsymia.com. Programs subject to change. Consult your doctor before starting Qsymia—discuss risks, especially pregnancy. Report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. VIVUS not liable for third-party pharmacy actions. Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026