Steglatro

Indicated For

Type 2 diabetes mellitus

About This Medication

# Merck Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Steglatro (ertugliflozin) at Low or No Cost Steglatro (ertugliflozin) is a prescription medication used to help manage **type 2 diabetes** in adults by improving blood sugar control alongside diet and exercise. The **Merck Patient Assistance Program (Merck PAP)** offers this medicine **free** to eligible uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients who meet specific financial and residency criteria.[1][2][3] ## About Steglatro (ertugliflozin) **Steglatro** belongs to a class of drugs called **SGLT2 inhibitors**. It works by helping the kidneys remove excess sugar from your blood through urine, lowering blood sugar levels. It's typically taken once daily, with or without food, and comes in tablet strengths of 5 mg or 15 mg. Common side effects may include urinary tract infections, yeast infections, increased urination, and dehydration risks—always discuss with your doctor.[1] This program provides free Steglatro if prescribed and you qualify, easing the financial burden for those without coverage.[2][9] ## Who Qualifies for Merck PAP? To enroll, you must meet **all** these criteria: - Reside in the **United States** or U.S. territory (U.S. citizenship not required).[1][3] - Have a valid prescription for **Steglatro** from a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider.[1][2] - **No prescription insurance** or employer coverage for Steglatro, and not enrolled in a program requiring PAP application.[1][5] - Meet **financial eligibility** based on household income (typically up to 400-500% of the Federal Poverty Level, though exact thresholds vary—call to confirm).[3][6] Merck PAP is designed for patients facing high medication costs without adequate insurance. It's not for those with government programs like Medicaid (full details below).[1][4] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Merck PAP uses **household income** (including all members living with you) compared to Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). Specific thresholds aren't listed publicly and depend on household size—program verifies via credit check or documents.[1][3] Here's a general table based on 2026 FPG estimates (call 800-727-5400 for exacts, as they adjust annually): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (Approx. 400% FPG) | |---------------|-------------------------------------| | 1 | $60,320 | | 2 | $81,760 | | 3 | $103,200 | | 4 | $124,640 | | +1 person | +$21,440 | *Note: These are estimates; actual limits may be higher/lower. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs if requested. Credit checks don't affect your score.[1][3][9]* ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients** qualify if they lack coverage for Steglatro.[1][5] - **Medicare**: Generally ineligible if on Medicare Part D (covers prescriptions)—exceptions rare.[4][5] - **Private insurance**: Must have no coverage for this drug; high copays alone don't qualify.[1] - No participation in employer plans pushing PAP applications.[1] If insured, explore Merck's copay programs first (separate from PAP).[7] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Check Eligibility**: Visit merckhelps.com or call **800-727-5400** (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-8 PM ET).[2][3] 2. **Download Form**: Get the enrollment form from merckhelps.com or call for one.[2][6] 3. **Patient Section**: Fill Section 1 (personal info), sign/date Sections 2-3. Authorize credit/income verification or attach proof (e.g., 1040 tax form, W-2, pay stubs).[1][3][9] 4. **Doctor Section**: Take to your prescriber—they complete Sections 4-5, include NPI#, sign/date, attach Steglatro prescription (separate for controlled substances).[1][3][6] 5. **Submit**: Mail original to **Merck Patient Assistance Program, PO Box 1206, Wilkes Barre, PA 18703-1206**. No fax/online for standard PAP; confirm for Steglatro.[4][9] Expect email confirmation if email provided.[9] *Tip: Use black ink, no copies—originals only. Controlled substances need separate Rx.[1][6]* ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 2-3 business days if complete/eligible; up to 2 weeks otherwise. Urgent? Call 800-727-5400.[3][7][9] - **Approval Notification**: Via mail/email; medicine shipped free to your home or doctor's office (confirm preference).[3] - **Duration**: Up to **12 months** per approval; reapply annually or as needed.[6] Track status by calling.[4] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Call 800-727-5400 for reasons (e.g., incomplete form, income too high).[4] - **Other Programs**: RxHope.com, NeedyMeds.org, or state assistance.[6] - **Generic/Switch**: Doctor may suggest alternatives like other SGLT2s (e.g., empagliflozin). - **Copay Cards**: If insured, check Merck Access Program (855-257-3932).[5][10] - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or similar for diabetes meds. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on Merck PAP details as of 2026. Eligibility, forms, and rules can change—**always verify with Merck at 800-727-5400 or merckhelps.com**. Not medical/financial advice; consult your doctor/pharmacist. Merck may audit/require docs anytime. Free medicine while supplies last; no guarantees.[1][2][3][4]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026