PRECOSE ®

Coupons, Savings & Patient Assistance

Learn more about PRECOSE® and see what savings options may be available to you that can help bring down the cost of your medication.

Options may include Rx Advantage Card, Copay assistance & Coupons, or Patient Assistance Programs. Suitable for insured, underinsured or uninsured individuals. Pay as little as $0 per fill.

Manufactured by Bayer Healthcare.

This content is intended for US audiences only

Drug savings programs

  • Qualified

    Rx Advantage Card for PRECOSE®

    Good News! You can save up to 90% on the cost of your PRECOSE® when using the FREE NowPatient’s Rx Advantage Card at your local pharmacy.

    A person holding a RX Savings Card
  • Available

    Canada drug option for PRECOSE®

    N/A
    Manufactured by
    N/A
    Prescription Help Logo
  • Unavailable

    Copay Assistance for PRECOSE®

    Unfortunately, Bayer Healthcare who manufactures PRECOSE®, does not offer a co-pay assistance program at this time. Please check back regularly as this situation may change.

    A person holding a coupon or copay card
    Option Not Available
  • Unavailable

    Patient Assistance Programs for PRECOSE®

    Unfortunately, Bayer Healthcare who manufactures PRECOSE®, does not offer a patient assistance program at this time. Please check back regularly as this situation may change.

    A picture of a patient assistance application form
    Option Not Available
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Jamie Winn NowPatientGreen tick
Updated on 26 Apr 2024

Learn more about PRECOSE

What is PRECOSE?

What is PRECOSE?

PRECOSE is the brand name for acarbose and is available as an oral tablet.

What dosages is PRECOSE available in?

What dosages is PRECOSE available in?

PRECOSE is available as a 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg oral tablet.

What is PRECOSE used for?

What is PRECOSE used for?

PRECOSE is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that is used to treat type 2 diabetes.

How does PRECOSE work?

How does PRECOSE work?

PRECOSE is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. It temporarily blocks a protein called alpha-glucosidase, which slows down the digestion of carbohydrates in your gut. As a result, your body will absorb less sugar from the foods that you eat. And this leads to lower blood sugar levels after you eat.

How do I take PRECOSE?

How do I take PRECOSE?

PRECOSE is typically given with a starting dose of 25 mg three times daily by mouth taken with the first bite with each main meal. The typical maintenance dose is 50 mg to 100 mg three times daily by mouth taken with the first bite with each main meal. Your provider will adjust your dose based on whether you’re having side effects and how well the medication is working to control your blood sugar levels.

Is it safe for me to take PRECOSE?

Is it safe for me to take PRECOSE?

PRECOSE is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.

You should not use this medication if you have a known hypersensitivity to the drug. Precose is contraindicated in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis or cirrhosis. PRECOSE is also contraindicated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, colonic ulceration, partial intestinal obstruction or in patients predisposed to intestinal obstruction.

In addition, PRECOSE is contraindicated in patients who have chronic intestinal diseases associated with marked disorders of digestion or absorption and in patients who have conditions that may deteriorate as a result of increased gas formation in the intestine.

PRECOSE Common Side Effects

PRECOSE Common Side Effects

Common side effects of PRECOSE:

  • Excessive gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
PRECOSE Serious Side Effects

PRECOSE Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects are rare with PRECOSE.

Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on PRECOSE

Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on PRECOSE

The following medications may interact with PRECOSE:

  • Patients Receiving Sulfonylureas or Insulin: Sulfonylurea agents or insulin may cause hypoglycemia. PRECOSE given in combination with a sulfonylurea or insulin may cause a further lowering of blood glucose and may increase the potential for hypoglycemia. If hypoglycemia occurs, appropriate adjustments in the dosage of these agents should be made
  • Intestinal adsorbents (for example, charcoal) and digestive enzyme preparations containing carbohydrate-splitting enzymes (for example, amylase, pancreatin) may reduce the effect of PRECOSE and should not be taken concomitantly
  • PRECOSE has been shown to change the bioavailability of digoxin when they are coadministered, which may require digoxin dose adjustment
Who makes PRECOSE?

Who makes PRECOSE?

Bayer Healthcare

Is PRECOSE safe in pregnancy?

Is PRECOSE safe in pregnancy?

It is not known if PRECOSE will harm your unborn baby. You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant.

pill

What to do if you missed your PRECOSE ® dose

The FDA's medical product safety reporting program for health professionals, patients and consumers.

Learn more about reporting side effects

What can I do if I am commercially insured but cannot afford my PRECOSE ®?

If you are commercially insured and you cannot afford your PRECOSE® copay or co-insurance you have four options:

Option

Savings Information

Copay Assistance Program

Check at the top of the page to see if there is a PRECOSE® Copay Assistance Program sponsored by the manufacturer. You can check your eligibility to see if you qualify. If you qualify you could obtain your PRECOSE® for as little as $0 per fill.

Patient Assistance Program

Check at the top of the page to see if there is a PRECOSE® Patient Assistance Program sponsored by the manufacturer. You can check your eligibility to see if you qualify. If you qualify you could obtain your PRECOSE® for no cost.

Rx Advantage Card

You can use the NowPatient Rx Advantage Card which removes the constraints of insurance and the cost can be typically lower than your plan copay or co-insurance. If you elect to use this method, out of pocket costs do not contribute towards your plan deductibles.

Medicaid

If the above options are not feasible then you can check Medicaid eligibility in your state by following this link to the HealthCare.gov. The government site is easy to use and you can select your state and it will navigate you to the appropriate contact point to make the application. State Medicaid programs may cover the full cost of your medication.

What can I do if I am uninsured and cannot afford my PRECOSE ®?

If you are uninsured and you cannot afford your PRECOSE®, then you have three options:

Option

Savings Information

Patient Assistance Program

Check at the top of the page to see if there is a PRECOSE® Patient Assistance Program sponsored by the manufacturer. You can check your eligibility to see if you qualify. If you qualify you could obtain your PRECOSE® for no cost.

Rx Advantage Card

You can use the NowPatient Rx Advantage Card at a local pharmacy and obtain prices that are typically 80% of standard retail prices.

Medicaid

If the above options are not feasible then you can check Medicaid eligibility in your state by following this link to the HealthCare.gov. The government site is easy to use and you can select your state and it will navigate you to the appropriate contact point to make the application. State Medicaid programs may cover the full cost of your medication.

What can I do if I am insured with Medicare and cannot afford my PRECOSE ®?

If you are insured with Medicare and have Part D or an Advantage drug plan but cannot afford your copay or co-insurance element (for example if you are in the coverage gap or Donut Hole) then you have four options:

Option

Savings Information

Patient Assistance Program

Check at the top of the page to see if there is a PRECOSE® Patient Assistance Program sponsored by the manufacturer. You can check your eligibility to see if you qualify. If you qualify you could obtain your PRECOSE® for no cost.

Rx Advantage Card

You can use the NowPatient Rx Advantage Card which removes the constraints of insurance and the cost can be typically lower than your plan copay or co-insurance. If you elect to use this method, out of pocket costs do not contribute towards your plan deductibles.

Low Income Subsidy

If this is still too expensive or unaffordable then you can apply for federal support like Low Income Subsidy (LIS). To be eligible for Low Income Subsidy, you need to be resident in one of the 50 States or the District of Columbia. You can check eligibility online at SSA Medicare D Extra Help. You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Medicaid

The final option is to check ‘dual eligibility’ to Medicaid in your state by following this link to the HealthCare.gov. The government site is easy to use and you can select your state and it will navigate you to the appropriate contact point to make the application. State Medicaid programs may cover the full cost of your medication.

Am I eligible for the Rx Advantage Card and how much does PRECOSE ® cost without insurance?

Our website gives savings options to customers who wish to purchase PRECOSE®, as either a brand or generic, without the constraints of insurance. By using the Rx Advantage Card, users can save up to 90% on the cost of their medication. The card can be used at over 65,000 pharmacies nationwide, across America. Even if you are insured, in most cases the cash price will be significantly cheaper than your existing co-pay. NowPatient is able to negotiate discounts on bulk drug purchases with pharmacy owners meaning you can access lower medication prices at nearby pharmacies using our card that can be conveniently stored in your NowPatient account.

What will my out-of-pocket cost be for PRECOSE ® when using the Rx Advantage Card?

Your out-of-pocket (OOP) cost will effectively be the discounted cash price you pay for PRECOSE® using the Rx Advantage Card. If you are insured, your OOP expense can not be used against your plan deductible, if your plan has a deductible.

Yes. The Rx Advantage card is especially useful for people who have High-deductible health plans (HDHPs). It can be used for insured, uninsured, and underinsured persons.

Does the Rx Advantage Card work with Medicare or any other federal or state insurance plans?

No. We do not bill any federal or state insurance including Medicare Part D (standalone drug coverage) or Medicare Advantage (combined health and drug benefit). When you purchase your medication using the NowPatient Rx Advantage Card, you will be doing so out of pocket. The spend will not count towards your plan deductibles or gaps in the event you have a plan with a deductible. The out-of-pocket PRECOSE® cash price you pay can be typically cheaper than your plan copay.

Does the Rx Advantage Card work with Commercial Insurance?

We do not bill your commercial insurance. When you purchase your medication using the Rx Advantage Card, from NowPatient, you will be doing so out of your pocket. The spend will not count towards your plan deductibles or gaps in the event you have a plan with a deductible. The out-of-pocket PRECOSE® cash price you pay can be typically cheaper than your plan copay.

How do I check prices for PRECOSE ® and how do I use the Rx Advantage Card?

You can search for the prices at nearby pharmacies using our website. Simply search your medication and enter your ZIP Code and we will show you the price of your drug at nearby pharmacies. If you are happy with the quote, you need to create an account with NowPatient and generate your card. Next, simply go to the pharmacy and fill your PRECOSE® Rx. Ask the pharmacy to run the card and check the price, even if they tell you they have another card they use. Your card is stored safely in your NowPatient account.

Do I need to pay for the Rx Advantage Card?

No. The Rx Advantage prescription savings card is FREE to use and store for NowPatient users.

Is there a PRECOSE ® co-pay program?

You can check the top of the page to see if there is an option for a PRECOSE® co-pay card. Co-pay cards are programs run by pharmaceutical companies that offer you a direct way to lower your out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs for eligible patients. The copay cards essentially allow physicians to prescribe medications that are clinically preferred.

What are the eligibility requirements for a PRECOSE ® co-pay card and how much do I have to pay?

Eligibility requirements vary between pharmaceutical companies. However, they almost all require you to be commercially insured. If you qualify there is no cost to you. It is a FREE program.

Can I enroll in the PRECOSE ® co-pay program if I have state, federal, or other government insurance?

Most likely, no. The copay card program is primarily designed for commercially or privately insured individuals. However, if you are finding it difficult to afford your medication, then there are other forms of assistance. For example, you can apply for LIS (Low Income Subsidy) or extra help is available online at SSA Medicare D Extra Help. You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). As well, you can look at state assistance programs like Medicaid.

Can I enroll in the PRECOSE ® co-pay program if I have no insurance?

Most likely No. However, many pharmaceutical companies offer fully funded free programs for uninsured persons. These programs are called Patient Assistance Programs (PAP) and NowPatient provides a useful resource to check program availability and eligibility.

How can I check if I am eligible for the PRECOSE ® co-pay program?

If a PRECOSE® co-pay card exists, you will see it as a savings option at the top of the page. You can select the option and it will direct you to an eligibility checker. If you qualify you will be prompted to create an account with NowPatient, from where you will be able to access the instructions on how to enroll.

How do I use the PRECOSE ® co-pay card?

Once you are enrolled into the program you will be able to download the card. When you next fill your Rx, simply present the co-pay card to the pharmacist. The Pharmacist will use the card to process and submit your claim. You will then be provided with your discount. The program cost is covered by the pharmaceutical company.

Is there a PRECOSE ® Patient Assistance Program (PAP)?

You can check the top of the page to see if there is an option for a PRECOSE patient assistance program. PAPs are programs that are run and sponsored by pharmaceutical companies. They offer uninsured, insured, or underinsured individuals access to high-cost brand-name medications, which may otherwise be unaffordable.

What are the eligibility requirements for a PRECOSE ® PAP and how much do I have to pay?

Eligibility requirements vary between pharmaceutical companies. However, they almost all require you to be uninsured, underinsured with no drug coverage, or insured but unable to afford your co-pay or co-insurance contribution. If you qualify there is no cost to you. It is a FREE program funded by the pharmaceutical company.

Can I enroll in a PRECOSE ® PAP if I have state, federal, or other government insurance?

It is possible. Some programs do not allow any insured individuals to apply, however, some programs do have exceptions. If you find that you do not qualify and are finding it difficult to afford your medication, then there are other forms of assistance. For example, you can apply for LIS (Low Income Subsidy) or extra help is available online at SSA Medicare D Extra Help. You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). As well, you can look at state assistance programs like Medicaid.

Can I enroll in a PRECOSE ® PAP if I have no insurance?

Yes. Most programs are open to individuals who are uninsured and meet income eligibility criteria.

How can I check if I am eligible for the PRECOSE ® PAP?

If a PRECOSE® patient assistance program exists, you will see it as a savings option at the top of the page. You can select the option and it will direct you to an eligibility checker. If you qualify you will be prompted to create an account with NowPatient, from where you will be able to access the instructions on how to enroll.

How do I use the PRECOSE ® PAP to obtain my medication?

Once you are enrolled in the program you will be advised by the pharmaceutical company how they will make supplies to you. In most cases, they will ship the medication through their nominated mail-order pharmacy, directly to you. However, depending on the nature of the medication, the pharmaceutical company may opt to provide you with a pharmacy card (which you can redeem against your medication for FREE at your nearby pharmacy) or ship the medication directly to your healthcare provider (HCP).

Refills are usually handled by the pharmaceutical company.

I am insured but I do not qualify for patient assistance or copay assistance for PRECOSE ®. Is there any other form of assistance that can help with the costs of my existing copays or co-insurance?

There are a number of resources available such as charitable foundations that may be able to provide assistance for your PRECOSE®:

Patient Access Network Foundation (PAN) assistance for PRECOSE®

If you are having trouble paying for your PRECOSE® medication due to unaffordable copays or deductibles, the Patient Access Network Foundation (PAN), may be able to assist you. To qualify for PAN assistance for PRECOSE® you will need to meet one or all of the following criteria:

  • Your income is below 400% of the federal poverty level
  • PRECOSE® is prescribed for an approved FDA indication
  • You live in and receive treatment in the United States or U.S. territories, even if you do not have U.S. citizenship
  • You have Medicare insurance coverage that covers PRECOSE®
  • If PRECOSE® is listed on PAN's list of covered medications

You can check the Patient Access Network Foundation Website for more information.

HealthWell Foundation Copay Program for PRECOSE®

If you are having trouble paying for your PRECOSE® medication due to unaffordable copays or deductibles, the HealthWell Foundation Copay Program may be able to assist you. To qualify for assistance for PRECOSE® you will need to meet the following criteria:

  • You live in and are being treated in the United States
  • You are insured and your plan covers PRECOSE®
  • If PRECOSE® is listed on the HealthWell Foundation's list of covered medications

You can check the HealthWell Foundation Website for more information.

Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief Program for PRECOSE®

Patient Advocate Foundation's Co-Pay Relief program exists to help reduce the financial distress you or your family may face when paying for your PRECOSE® treatment. If you qualify and can demonstrate the need, the foundation will provide you with direct payment covering co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles. To qualify for assistance for PRECOSE® you will need to meet the following criteria:

  • You must be currently insured and have coverage for PRECOSE®
  • You must have a confirmed diagnosis and treatment plan
  • You must reside and receive treatment in the United States
  • Your Income must fall at or below 3000r 4000f the Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG) with consideration for the Cost of Living Index (COLI) and number in the household
  • Applications can also be completed by contacting the program sponsor, toll-free at 866-512-3861.

You can check the Patient Advocate Foundation Website for more information.

Can I buy my PRECOSE ® from Canada?

Americans pay at least twice as much (in fact 218%) on prescription medications than individuals in other countries, like Canada. The reason why Canada drugs are cheaper is that Canada regulates its prescription medication drug prices (the Patented Medicines Prices Review Board) meaning that consumers pay less for their PRECOSE®. This prevents pharmaceutical patentees from charging excessive prices.

As well, many Canadian drugs are likely produced by exactly the same companies in the same factories, as US prescription drugs.

We have partnered with Prescription Help in Canada that carries thousands of branded and generic medications. If there is an option for PRECOSE® from Canada, then we will provide this as an Rx savings option to you.

Is it safe for me to buy my PRECOSE ® from Prescription Help, Canada?

If you purchase PRECOSE® from Canadian Prescription Help, then there is little reason to worry about safety since it is likely that the drugs will be the same ones you would get from your American drugstore, and would have undergone the same rigorous testing as the American counterparts. Canada drugs are regulated for safety, efficacy and quality by Health Canada, which is the Canadian equivalent of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If you are unsure, you can discuss this option with your physician, especially if you find it difficult affording your medications and may therefore risk not being treated.

Rest assured, NowPatient has done thorough due diligence on Prescription Help, to ensure that the service is adequately licensed, regulated and safe.

We have checked and verified that Prescription Help:

  • Is a licensed pharmacy in Canada.
  • Will only fill your PRECOSE® if you have a valid prescription.
  • Has a licensed pharmacist on staff to answer your questions.
  • Does not send medicine that looks different than what you receive at your usual drug store, nor does it arrive in packaging that is damaged, in a foreign language, has no expiration date, or is expired.
  • Does not charge you for products that you never ordered or received.
  • Provides clear written protections for your personal and financial information, including credit card numbers.
  • Maintains the highest standards of data security and compliance.
  • Does not sell your information to other websites.
  • Does not supply controlled substances.
  • Does not supply any products on an FDA Import Alert.
  • Quantities are restricted to a maximum of 3 month's supply for international orders.
  • Publishes contact information on website for customer service.

Is ordering PRECOSE ® from a Canadian Pharmacy legal?

Although it is technically not legal for individuals to import prescription drugs, It is notable that U.S. government officials have stated that individuals who procure non-controlled prescription drugs from Canada or other foreign sources for up to a three-month supply for their own use are not pursued or prosecuted. There are hundreds of thousands of American patients who have used or continue to use Canadian pharmacies to procure their medications at significant discounts. Often the price of medications can be the difference between getting treated or not being treated.

How do I place an order for PRECOSE ® from Prescription Help, Canada?

If your medication is available from our partner Canadian Pharmacy, then we will show it as an option. You can search for the product by pack size, strength or form and then see the price for PRECOSE®. If you are happy with the price, you can proceed to the checkout. This will take you to the Prescription Help website, from where you can complete the process. Prescription Help is not connected to NowPatient other than as an affiliate partner which offers services that may benefit NowPatient users. It is not insurance, any payments are strictly cash and are considered out-of-pocket.

What should I do if I take too much PRECOSE ®?

Call your doctor right away or seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms do not improve or they become worse after using PRECOSE®. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource if you think you've used too much PRECOSE®. But if you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

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Medical Disclaimer

NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information in this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.

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