Affordability Check
How to afford Serostim
Generic name: somatropin
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get Serostim — 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 Serostim and its cost
What is this medication? Serostim is a prescription medication that contains somatropin, which is a recombinant form of human growth hormone. It is specifically approved for the treatment of individuals living with HIV who are experiencing wasting or cachexia. This condition involves the involuntary loss of body weight and lean muscle mass, which can lead to significant physical weakness and health complications. By supplementing the body with growth hormone, the medication aims to reverse these effects and support the maintenance of a healthier body composition.
The medication functions by stimulating metabolic processes that encourage the body to build muscle and retain protein. This helps patients increase their lean body mass and can improve overall physical endurance and functional strength. Serostim is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection and is usually prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes antiretroviral therapy. Healthcare providers monitor patients closely to adjust the dosage based on their specific needs and how their body responds to the hormone therapy.
Serostim is made by EMD Serono. 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 Serostim?
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 Serostim?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But EMD Serono has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover Serostim?
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 HIV/AIDS?
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 Serostim
Full Serostim drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for HIV/AIDS
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