Qtern

AZ&Me Prescription Savings Program Patient Guide: How to Get Qtern (dapagliflozin/saxagliptin) at Low or No Cost

Qtern (dapagliflozin/saxagliptin) is a prescription medication used to help manage type 2 diabetes in adults when diet and exercise alone are not enough. This patient-friendly guide explains the AZ&Me Prescription Savings Program from AstraZeneca, which can provide Qtern at low or no cost to eligible patients. Whether you're uninsured, on Medicare, or facing high out-of-pocket costs, this program may help you access your medication affordably.

About Qtern (dapagliflozin/saxagliptin)

Qtern combines two active ingredients: dapagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor that helps the kidneys remove excess sugar from the blood through urine, and saxagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor that increases insulin production and decreases sugar production in the liver. Together, they improve blood sugar control, reduce the risk of heart failure hospitalization in certain patients, and may support weight loss and blood pressure management. It's typically taken once daily with or without food. Common side effects include urinary tract infections, dehydration, and low blood sugar (especially when combined with other diabetes drugs). Always consult your doctor for personalized advice, as Qtern is not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

This guide focuses on the AZ&Me Prescription Savings Program, designed to make treatments like Qtern accessible. AstraZeneca offers this to bridge gaps in coverage for those who qualify.[1]

Who Qualifies for AZ&Me?

Eligibility centers on household income, insurance status, and residency. You must be a U.S. resident (or certain territories) and 18 years or older. Key requirements include:

• Uninsured patients or Medicare patients without certain coverages.
• Not enrolled in private insurance prescription drug coverage or government programs other than Medicare.
• Medicare patients must not be eligible for or enrolled in the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) for Medicare Part D.
• Meet total household income guidelines based on Federal Poverty Level (FPL), though exact percentages are not specified publicly—call to verify.[1]

Income Eligibility Breakdown

AZ&Me uses household size and total gross income (before taxes) to determine eligibility. Specific thresholds like 400% FPL or exact dollar amounts are not detailed in available resources, but programs like this often cover up to 400-500% FPL. Here's a general table based on 2026 FPL estimates (confirm with program for precise guidelines):

Important: These are illustrative; actual limits vary. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs. If over income, explore copay cards or other AstraZeneca options.[1]

Insurance Requirements

• Eligible: Uninsured, underinsured, or Medicare (Parts A/B/D) patients not on LIS.
• Ineligible: Those with private insurance drug coverage, Medicaid, or other government programs (except Medicare). Government employees with prescription coverage may also be excluded.

If you have Medicare but no Part D drug coverage or high costs, you may qualify. Verify by phone.[1]

Step-by-Step Application Process

AZ&Me offers multiple application methods for convenience:

1. Call the Hotline: Dial (877) 386-0206 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-8 PM ET). A representative guides you, answers questions, and processes verbally.

2. Online Application: Visit the AZ&Me website (search 'AZ&Me Prescription Savings') to apply digitally—fastest for tech-savvy users.[1]

3. Download & Mail: Get the form from the site, complete with doctor signature, and mail it.

4. Doctor's Role: Your prescriber must confirm diagnosis, complete sections, and provide contact info.

5. Submit Documents: Income proof (W-2, 1040, pay stubs), ID, and insurance details if applicable. Exact list confirmed during application.[1]

Applications are reviewed quickly—often within a few hours.[1]

Timeline and Delivery

• Approval: Typically within a few hours to 1-2 business days after submission.
• Delivery: Medication shipped free to your home (or doctor's office in some cases). First shipment arrives in 7-10 days.
• Supply Duration: Up to 90-day supply per refill.

Reauthorization: Required periodically (e.g., annually or after 12 months). Recertify income/insurance before refill.[1]

Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible

• Copay Savings Card: AstraZeneca's card for commercially insured patients—reduces copays to $0-$25 (search 'Qtern savings card').

• Patient Assistance Foundations: PAN Foundation or HealthWell for diabetes meds.

• Generic Options: Saxagliptin or dapagliflozin alone may be cheaper.

• State Programs: Check NeedyMeds.org or RxAssist.org for locals.[1]

• Other AstraZeneca Programs: AZ&Me Copay or Bridge for short-term help.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes based on available data as of 2024.[1] Eligibility, terms, and income limits can change—AstraZeneca reserves rights to modify/terminate. Not a guarantee of coverage. Consult healthcare provider; do not alter meds without advice. For latest, call (877) 386-0206 or visit AZ&Me site. Word count: ~950.