Trulance

Indicated For

Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C), Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)

About This Medication

# Trulance (Plecanatide) Patient Guide: How to Get Your Medication at Low or No Cost ## Important Notice About Trulance Assistance Currently, there is **no active manufacturer-run Prescription Assistance Program (PAP)** directly from Salix Pharmaceuticals for Trulance. However, this does not mean you cannot access affordable medication. This guide will help you explore all available options to obtain Trulance at reduced or no cost. ## What is Trulance? Trulance (plecanatide) is a prescription medication used to treat: - **Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)** - a condition causing abdominal pain, discomfort, and constipation - **Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)** - long-term constipation without a known cause Trulance works by activating guanylate cyclase-C receptors in the intestines, which helps increase intestinal fluid and promote bowel movements. ## Option 1: Trulance Savings Card ### What It Is Salix Pharmaceuticals offers a **Savings Card** that can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs for Trulance if you have insurance. ### How to Access - Visit **https://www.trulance.com/savings/** - You can print the card or request it be mailed to you - Present the card to your pharmacist when filling your prescription ### Who Can Use It - Patients with commercial or private insurance - Patients who are not eligible for government programs (Medicare, Medicaid) - May not be combined with other manufacturer coupons ### Typical Savings Savings vary based on your insurance plan, but many patients see significant reductions in copays. ## Option 2: State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs Many states offer their own medication assistance programs that may help cover Trulance costs. ### How to Find Your State Program 1. Visit **NeedyMeds.org** (https://www.needymeds.org) 2. Search for your state's pharmaceutical assistance program 3. Contact your state's health department directly ### Typical Income Eligibility State programs often have more flexible income requirements than manufacturer programs. Eligibility varies significantly by state. ### What You'll Need - Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements) - Proof of residency in your state - Valid prescription for Trulance - Proof of citizenship or legal residency ## Option 3: NeedyMeds.org Database This free, nonprofit resource lists thousands of assistance programs including: - Disease-specific organizations - Charitable foundations - Local community health programs - Hospital financial assistance programs ### How to Use 1. Visit **https://www.needymeds.org** 2. Search for "Trulance," "plecanatide," or "digestive disorders" 3. Contact programs directly to inquire about eligibility ## Option 4: 340B Program Pharmacies Some nonprofit hospitals and pharmacies participate in the 340B program, which allows them to dispense medications at significantly reduced prices. ### How to Find - Ask your doctor if they know of 340B program pharmacies in your area - Contact your local hospital's pharmacy department - Call the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) at 1-888-ASK-HRSA ## Option 5: Clinical Trial Participation Research studies for digestive conditions sometimes provide free medication to participants. ### How to Find Trials - Visit **ClinicalTrials.gov** - Search for "plecanatide" or "IBS-C" or "CIC" - Ask your gastroenterologist about local trials ## Option 6: Medicaid and Medicare Programs ### Medicaid If you qualify for Medicaid, your state program should cover Trulance (coverage varies by state). - Apply through your state's Medicaid office - No out-of-pocket costs for eligible recipients ### Medicare If you have Medicare: - Trulance may be covered under your Part D prescription drug plan - Some plans offer copay assistance programs - Contact your specific plan for coverage details ## How to Apply for Assistance ### Step-by-Step Process **Step 1: Gather Required Documents** - Valid prescription from your doctor for Trulance - Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or Social Security statements) - Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement) - Insurance information (if applicable) - Government-issued ID **Step 2: Choose Your Assistance Option** - Start with the Trulance Savings Card if you have insurance - Contact your state's pharmaceutical assistance program - Explore NeedyMeds.org options **Step 3: Complete Applications** - Applications can usually be completed online, by phone, or by mail - Provide accurate, complete information - Keep copies of everything you submit **Step 4: Follow Up** - Note the application date and any reference numbers - Ask about the expected timeline for a decision - Be prepared to provide additional information if requested ## Timeline and Expectations - **Savings Card**: Instant (online) or 5-10 business days (by mail) - **State Programs**: 2-4 weeks typical for application review - **NeedyMeds Resources**: Varies by specific program (1-6 weeks) - **Clinical Trials**: 2-8 weeks typical ## What To Do If You Are Denied If your assistance application is denied: 1. **Ask Why**: Request a detailed explanation of the denial reason 2. **Appeal**: Many programs allow appeals—ask about the process 3. **Try Alternatives**: Apply for other programs listed in this guide 4. **Ask Your Doctor**: Your healthcare provider may have samples or know other resources 5. **Contact Patient Advocacy**: Organizations focused on digestive health may offer additional resources ## Income Eligibility Guide While specific thresholds vary by program, here's a general reference: | Household Size | Approximate Maximum Annual Income (Federal Poverty Guidelines) | |---|---| | 1 person | $14,580 | | 2 people | $19,720 | | 3 people | $24,860 | | 4 people | $30,000 | | 5 people | $35,140 | | 6 people | $40,280 | | 7 people | $45,420 | | 8 people | $50,560 | *Note: Many assistance programs use 200-300% of poverty guidelines. Check individual program requirements.* ## Additional Resources - **HRSA Uninsured Help Line**: 1-888-ASK-HRSA - **NeedyMeds.org**: Comprehensive assistance program database - **ClinicalTrials.gov**: Find research studies - **American Gastroenterological Association**: Patient resources and support - **American College of Gastroenterology**: IBS-C and CIC information ## Questions to Ask Your Doctor 1. Are there samples of Trulance available? 2. Do you know of any local assistance programs? 3. Are there alternative medications that might be more affordable? 4. Can you provide a prescription that specifies generic plecanatide if available in the future? 5. Are there any clinical trials you could recommend? ## Legal Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Eligibility requirements, program availability, and benefits change frequently. Readers should directly contact assistance programs to verify current eligibility, documentation requirements, and application procedures. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your treatment options and medication access. Prices, copays, and coverage details are subject to change. This information was current at the time of publication but may not reflect current program status.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026