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Affordability Check

How to afford GLUCAGON

Generic name: Glucagon

Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get GLUCAGON — 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 GLUCAGON and its cost

What is this medication? Glucagon is a prescription medication primarily used as an emergency treatment for severe hypoglycemia, which is dangerously low blood sugar. This condition often occurs in individuals with diabetes who take insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. When blood sugar levels drop to a point where the person may become confused, lose consciousness, or experience seizures, glucagon provides a rapid way to increase glucose levels in the bloodstream. It is typically administered via injection or nasal spray by a caregiver or healthcare professional when the patient is unable to consume sugar orally.

This medication works by signaling the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose, which is then released into the blood. While the body naturally produces glucagon in the pancreas, the synthetic version acts as a powerful intervention to reverse life-threatening drops in blood sugar. It is considered a critical tool in diabetes management plans, and patients are often advised to keep it accessible at all times. Once the medication is administered and the patient regains consciousness, it is usually followed by the consumption of a fast-acting carbohydrate to stabilize their levels.

GLUCAGON is made by Amphastar. 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 GLUCAGON?

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 GLUCAGON?

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

Does my Medicare Part D plan cover GLUCAGON?

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 Diabetes?

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 GLUCAGON