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Affordability Check

How to afford Balcoltra

Generic name: levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol

Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get Balcoltra — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.

How are you covered for prescriptions?

Pick the one that fits you. We'll show you the cheapest way to get this drug.

Pick an option above to see your specific path.

Different insurance means different laws and different savings. For example, Medicare patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards (federal law) — but the manufacturer almost always has a Patient Assistance Program that gives the drug free.

About Balcoltra and its cost

What is this medication? Balcoltra is a prescription oral contraceptive pill used by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. It is classified as a combination hormonal contraceptive because it contains two distinct types of hormones: a progestin called levonorgestrel and an estrogen called ethinyl estradiol. These hormones work together primarily by suppressing ovulation, which is the monthly release of an egg from the ovary. Additionally, the medication thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg and alters the lining of the uterus to decrease the likelihood of implantation.

The medication is typically provided in a 28-day blister pack that includes 21 active hormonal tablets and 7 inactive tablets. A unique feature of Balcoltra is that its inactive pills contain ferrous bisglycinate, a form of iron, although these are not intended to serve as a medical treatment for iron deficiency. To ensure the highest level of effectiveness, the pill must be taken at the same time every day as directed by a healthcare provider. It is important to note that while Balcoltra is effective for pregnancy prevention, it does not offer protection against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.

Balcoltra is made by Avion. Like most brand-name drugs, it's priced at a high list price — but patients rarely pay that list price. The options above are the real paths most people use to get it affordably.

Common questions

What's the cheapest way to afford Balcoltra?

It depends on your insurance. On Medicare, apply for the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program (PAP) — it gives the drug free if you meet income requirements. With private insurance, the manufacturer copay card usually drops your copay to $0-$25. Uninsured patients should compare the PAP with Cost Plus Drugs cash price.

Can I use a copay card with Medicare for Balcoltra?

No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Avion has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.

Does my Medicare Part D plan cover Balcoltra?

Part D coverage varies by plan. We query the CMS Prescription Drug Plan file to show you what percentage of plans cover it and at what tier. For your exact copay, pick "Medicare" above and check your plan's Summary of Benefits, or log in to Medicare.gov.

How long does a Patient Assistance Program take?

Most PAPs take 2-6 weeks from application to first fill. Ask the manufacturer about a "bridge supply" — many will ship 30 days free while your application is being reviewed so you don't go without the drug.

What if I have a high-deductible plan?

For generics, Cost Plus Drugs cash price is often cheaper than your deductible-phase copay. For brand names, the manufacturer copay card almost always wins. A GoodRx coupon can be a last resort for uncovered drugs, but it doesn't count toward your deductible.

Are there charity grants for Contraception?

Charities like HealthWell Foundation, PAN Foundation, Good Days, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders provide copay help for specific conditions. Funds often run out mid-year — apply early. We list the specific grants for your condition in the options above.

More about Balcoltra