Affordability Check
How to afford EMSAM
Generic name: selegiline
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get EMSAM — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.
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 EMSAM and its cost
What is this medication? EMSAM is a transdermal patch used for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. It contains the active ingredient selegiline, which belongs to a class of drugs known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs. This medication works by increasing the levels of certain natural chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which help maintain mental balance and improve mood for those experiencing clinical depression.
The medication is applied directly to the skin once every twenty-four hours, providing a continuous release of the drug into the bloodstream. One notable feature of this patch is that at its lowest strength, patients typically do not need to follow the strict dietary restrictions usually required for older oral MAOIs. However, at higher doses, it remains necessary to avoid specific foods and drinks high in tyramine to prevent a sudden and dangerous increase in blood pressure.
EMSAM is made by Mylan. 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 EMSAM?
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 EMSAM?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Mylan has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover EMSAM?
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 Major Depressive Disorder?
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 EMSAM
Full EMSAM drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Major Depressive Disorder
Drugs, grants, and assistance for this condition
Guide to Patient Assistance Programs
How PAPs work, who qualifies, typical wait times
If your insurance denied coverage
5-level appeal playbook — Medicare has a 60% win rate at Level 3