Tresiba

Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Tresiba (insulin degludec) at Low or No Cost

Tresiba (insulin degludec) is a long-acting insulin used to help control blood sugar levels in adults and children with diabetes. The Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program (PAP) provides this medication at no cost to eligible patients who meet specific income and residency requirements, helping those who struggle with prescription costs.[1][2][4]

About Tresiba and Why This Program Matters

Tresiba is a once-daily basal insulin that offers flexible dosing times and lasts up to 42 hours, providing steady blood sugar control with a lower risk of hypoglycemia compared to some other insulins. It's prescribed for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Managing diabetes requires consistent insulin use, but high costs—often hundreds of dollars per month—can be a barrier. The Novo Nordisk PAP removes this barrier by offering free medication for up to 12 months (or through year-end for Medicare patients), shipped directly to your doctor's office.[1][2][4]

This guide explains eligibility, application steps, and what to expect, making it easy for you to access Tresiba without financial stress.

Who Qualifies for the Program?

To qualify, you must meet these key criteria:

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident with a valid Social Security number.[4][5]
• Have a household income at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Eligibility is determined individually based on program guidelines.[1][4]
• Not be eligible for Medicaid (or have a denial letter if applicable). Medicare Part D patients no longer need to spend $1,000 out-of-pocket—recent updates removed this requirement.[2][3]
• Lack adequate prescription coverage, though exceptions apply.[10]

Income Eligibility Breakdown

Income limits are based on 400% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Use this table as a guide (actual amounts may vary slightly; call 866-310-7549 to confirm your household size).[4]

Insurance Requirements

• No prescription insurance (HMO/PPO) preferred, but Medicare Part D enrollees are now eligible without prior spending thresholds.[2][3]
• Medicaid: Must apply and be denied; submit denial letter.[2][8]
• Medicare LIS: Submit denial letter if applicable.[2]
• The program verifies insurance electronically with your consent.[1]

Patients agree not to seek reimbursement from government programs.[1]

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying is straightforward with online or paper options. Involves both you and your healthcare provider (HCP).[2][7]

1. Gather Documents:

   • Proof of income (2025 tax return, pay stubs, SSA-1099).[1][7]
   • Medicare card/Insurance ID if applicable.[1]
   • HCP's name, state, email.[7]
   • Medicaid/Medicare LIS denial letter if relevant.[2]

2. Choose Application Method:

   • Online (English only): HCP starts at novocare.com, you complete patient section via email link.[2][7]
   • Paper (English/Spanish): Download from novocare.com, fill patient section, HCP completes prescriber/Rx, fax to 866-441-4190 or mail to Novo Nordisk, PO Box 370, Somerville, NJ 08876.[1][4]
   • Phone Help: Call 866-310-7549 (M-F 8am-8pm ET).[1][7]

3. Sign and Submit: Patient and HCP sign; consent to electronic income/insurance verification.[1]

4. Opt-Ins: Choose SMS, phone alerts, or TPCA (pre-recorded calls).[1][2]

Timeline and Delivery

• Processing: 2 business days if complete; up to 10 business days otherwise. Allow extra for mail.[1][2][7]
• Decision: Mailed letter to you/HCP; phone/text if opted in.[2]
• Delivery: If approved, 10-14 business days (up to 21 days) to HCP's office for coordinated dispensing. Direct-to-patient shipment available in some cases.[1][2]
• Enrollment: 12 months; Medicare through year-end.[4]

Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible

• Reapply: Fix issues (e.g., missing docs) and resubmit.[2]
• Other NovoCare Savings: My$99Insulin (insulin at $99/month), copay cards.[9]
• State Programs: Check Medicaid, state pharmaceutical aid.[8]
• NeedyMeds.org or 211.org for generics/biosimilars (none specified for Tresiba).[7]
• HCP Samples or clinic resources.

Refills and Reauthorization

Approved patients get 90-day supplies. Reapply annually or as notified; HCP submits reorder form.[5] Track via phone alerts.[1]

Important Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes based on current program details as of 2026. Eligibility, rules, and FPL change; always verify with Novo Nordisk at 866-310-7549 or novocare.com. Not legal/medical advice. Consult your doctor before starting Tresiba. Program free—no fees.[1][4] (Word count: 942)