Help for Buying Prescriptions with a Low Income

Q: I'm a 43-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes. My doctor prescribed Byetta. It's helping me, but I can't afford it on my income. Can you guide me?

A: Many pharmaceutical companies have patient financial-assistance programs. For Byetta, contact the Amylin Patient Assistance Program. The program is available for patients prescribed Byetta (exenatide) who do not have adequate insurance or other financial assistance and meet the eligibility criteria. To be considered, you need to complete an application form and provide information on financial status. If approved, you must reapply every six months. Call 800/330-7647 or visit amylin.com/products/reimbursement.cfm for more information.

Virginia Zamudio Lange, R.N., M.S.N., CDE, is a registered nurse, certified diabetes educator, and a past president of the American Association of Diabetes Educators.