Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a brand-name prescription medication belonging to the SGLT2 inhibitor class. It is primarily prescribed for the management of blood sugar levels in adults and children aged 10 years and older with Type 2 diabetes. Additional approved uses include reducing the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with Type 2 diabetes and established heart disease, lowering the risk of hospitalisation and cardiovascular death in adults with heart failure, and reducing the risk of worsening kidney disease, hospitalisation, and cardiovascular death in adults with chronic kidney disease. The medication is administered as a once-daily oral tablet and is available in 10 mg and 25 mg strengths, which should be taken in the morning with or without food.
Without health insurance, the cost of Jardiance can be prohibitively expensive. The current list price for a 30-day supply is $630, though this may vary based on pharmacy location. The medication is still under patent protection, which means there is no generic version available, contributing to its high cost. According to the manufacturer, Boehringer Ingelheim, approximately 93% of patients pay between $0 and $50 per month for Jardiance, with the remaining 7% paying an average of $170 per month. For those facing financial difficulties, several cost-saving options are available, including manufacturer savings cards and patient assistance programmes.
Manufacturer Savings Card
Boehringer Ingelheim, the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Jardiance, offers a savings card for eligible patients. This programme is designed for individuals with commercial insurance who may struggle with out-of-pocket costs. Eligible participants can pay as low as $10 per month for a one- to three-month supply of Jardiance. Once enrolled, the savings card automatically re-enrols the patient after 12 months if they continue to meet the eligibility criteria. To apply for the savings card, individuals can visit the official Jardiance website or contact the manufacturer directly for support and additional information.
BI Cares Patient Assistance Programme
The Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation (BI Cares) operates a patient assistance programme that provides free medication to eligible patients. This charitable programme is aimed at older adults and lower-income families. To qualify, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Be a resident in the United States or a U.S. territory.
- Have no health insurance or limited health insurance coverage.
- Have no access to alternate insurance coverage or financial aid for the medication.
- Meet the BI Cares household income guidelines.
The programme provides free medication for 12 months from the approval date and can be renewed if the patient continues to meet the eligibility requirements. To enrol, applicants must submit an online application through the programme’s website. Assistance with the application or questions about the programme can be obtained by calling the BI Cares helpline.
Third-Party Assistance Services
For patients who find the application process for patient assistance programmes challenging, third-party services like The Rx Advocates offer specialised support. These services focus on helping patients navigate the enrolment process for manufacturer patient assistance programmes, which provide dependable, continuous financial assistance for ongoing treatment needs. The Rx Advocates work with patients to assemble required documentation, submit applications to the manufacturer, and arrange medication shipments to ensure continuous access to treatment.
Eligibility for patient assistance programmes is typically evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but general income guidelines are often used. For instance, individuals may qualify if they earn up to $40,000 annually, couples up to $60,000, and larger families up to $100,000. These services aim to remove financial obstacles that prevent patients from accessing essential medications.
Important Considerations and Alternatives
When considering cost-saving options, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and warnings associated with Jardiance. Common side effects may include urinary tract infections, increased urination, and yeast infections. More serious side effects can include diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney problems, low blood pressure, dehydration, and serious urinary infections. Jardiance is not recommended for use in type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis, and caution is advised for patients with severe kidney disease. It may also interact with other medications, such as diuretics and insulin.
If Jardiance remains unaffordable despite available savings options, healthcare providers may recommend alternative medications. Some alternatives that insurance plans may cover include:
- Glucophage (metformin)
- Farxiga (dapagliflozin)
- Amaryl (glimepiride)
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
- Januvia (sitagliptin)
- Victoza (liraglutide)
- Actos (pioglitazone)
- Trulicity (dulaglutide)
- Glucotrol XL (glipizide extended-release)
- Lantus (insulin glargine)
Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most appropriate and affordable treatment option based on individual health needs and financial circumstances.
Conclusion
Jardiance is a vital medication for managing Type 2 diabetes and related cardiovascular and kidney conditions, but its cost can be a significant barrier for many patients. Fortunately, several avenues exist to reduce the financial burden, including the manufacturer’s savings card and the BI Cares Patient Assistance Programme. For those needing additional support, third-party services can assist with navigating the application process. It is crucial for patients to explore all available options, consult with their healthcare providers, and understand the eligibility requirements and potential side effects before making a decision. By leveraging these resources, eligible individuals can gain access to this essential medication at a reduced cost or no cost.