Steglujan

Indicated For

type 2 diabetes

About This Medication

# Merck Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Steglujan at Low or No Cost Steglujan (ertugliflozin/sitagliptin) is a prescription medication used to help manage **type 2 diabetes** in adults, alongside diet and exercise. It combines two active ingredients—ertugliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor that helps the kidneys remove excess sugar through urine, and sitagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor that boosts insulin production and reduces glucose production in the liver. If you're struggling to afford Steglujan due to lack of insurance or high costs, the **Merck Patient Assistance Program** may provide it free of charge to eligible patients.[1][2][6] This guide explains everything you need to know about the program in simple terms, from eligibility to applying. It's designed for patients like you—clear, step-by-step, and focused on getting you the help you need. Note that program details can change, so always verify on the official Merck Helps website or by phone.[3] ## Who Qualifies for the Merck Patient Assistance Program? The program is for **uninsured or underinsured U.S. residents** who can't afford their Merck medications, including Steglujan. You must meet **all three** key conditions:[6] - You live in the U.S. (citizens, legal residents, and U.S. territory residents qualify—no citizenship required).[6] - You have a valid prescription for Steglujan from a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider.[6] - You lack prescription drug coverage (no private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, or other government programs covering the medicine).[2][6] Even if you have some insurance that doesn't fully cover Steglujan, you may qualify if you attest to financial hardship.[6] The program prioritizes those without any coverage who couldn't otherwise afford the drug.[1][7] ## About Steglujan Steglujan is taken once daily to control blood sugar levels in **type 2 diabetes**. It's not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Common side effects include urinary tract infections, dehydration, and low blood sugar (especially with other diabetes meds). Always follow your doctor's instructions and report side effects. This program helps ensure access for those in need, aligning with Merck's commitment to patients.[4][7] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Income limits are based on **federal poverty level (FPL)** guidelines, typically around **400% of FPL** or specific household thresholds. For example, recent guidelines show:[6] - **Individual**: $79,800 or less per year. - **Couple**: $108,200 or less. - **Family of 3**: Up to $165,000 (scaled accordingly). - **Family of 4**: $165,000 or less. These are approximate and may adjust annually for inflation—check merckhelps.com for current figures.[6] Income includes household total before taxes; special circumstances may allow exceptions.[6] Here's a clear table for quick reference (2026 estimates based on prior data; confirm officially): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (Approx.) | |----------------|-------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $79,800 | | 2 (Couple) | $108,200 | | 3 | $142,000 | | 4 | $165,000 | | 5+ | Add ~$23,000 per person | [6] Notes: Limits are for gross income. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs.[3] ## Insurance Requirements The program is primarily for those **without prescription insurance coverage** for Steglujan. Examples of disqualifying coverage include:[6] - Private insurance, HMOs. - Medicare Part D, Medicaid. - State pharmacy aid, VA, or social services. If insured but facing high copays and hardship, explore Merck's **Access Program** first for copay help or referrals (not for Medicare/government insurance).[2][3] Vaccines for 65+ may have Medicare options.[3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm Eligibility**: Visit merckhelps.com, enter "Steglujan," and check if covered (Merck product—likely yes).[1][2] 2. **Get Your Doctor's Help**: Your healthcare provider must complete part of the form. Download it from merckhelps.com.[5] 3. **Gather Documents**: Proof of income (tax return, W-2, pay stubs), proof of residency, no insurance proof (letter or card).[3] 4. **Complete and Submit**: Fill the enrollment form (doctor and patient sign). Mail original (no faxes) to: Merck Patient Assistance Program, P.O. Box 690, Horsham, PA 19044-9979.[8] 5. **Call for Help**: Dial 800-727-5400 (8 AM-8 PM ET, Mon-Fri) for questions or status.[3] Or Merck Access Program at 855-257-3932.[3][6] A single application can cover up to **1 year** of medication.[6][10] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Typically 2-4 weeks, but call to track.[3] - **Supply**: 90-day supply with up to 3 refills (total 1 year). Refills via toll-free number.[10] - **Delivery**: Shipped free to your home or doctor's office/pharmacy.[4] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Merck Access Program**: For insurance navigation or copay coupons (privately insured only).[2] - **Product Coupons**: Check Steglujan site for savings cards (not for uninsured/Medicare).[2] - **Other PAPs**: NeedyMeds.org, RxAssist.org, or state programs. - **Generic Options**: Discuss ertugliflozin or sitagliptin alternatives with your doctor. - **Reapply**: Fix issues and resubmit, or request review for hardship.[6] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical or legal advice. Eligibility, benefits, and terms can change—Merck reserves the right to modify/discontinue.[3] Consult your doctor for health decisions. Verify all details at merckhelps.com or by calling 800-727-5400. Program through Merck Patient Assistance Program, Inc., a separate nonprofit.[1][4] (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026