So depressed - I can't afford the fertility drugs - I can't stop crying

[Anonymous]

We switched health insurance so we can get 50% coverage. Finally saved enough money for 2 IUIs. I thought the drugs were included, but they aren't and our new insurance does not cover them. I am so upset - there is no way we can afford these and I am about to give up. Is there anyplace I can get leftover unused medications from ladies who didn't need theirs? Even if I pay much less thant retail cost. This is my last hope.

[Anonymous]

Ask your fertility doctors office. When I was done with my IVF cycle, I had a ton of drugs left over. I gave them to my doctors office and they assured me they would go to someone who could not afford the drugs.

[Anonymous]

I agree with PP. Check with your clinic and see if they have any leftover meds. I got all of my clomid for free. Both of my IUI cycles cost me under $500 for the meds (clomid + injectables, and just injectables) so worst case scenerio, just pay for the meds on a credit card and pay it off as you can. I know credit cards are not the greatest option for many reasons but if you really don't want to wait until you have saved enough for the meds, then that could be a quick solution.

[Anonymous]

I second asking your doctor and your nurse. Many clinics have extra drugs that they give out. Also, I'd ask about whether you can switch stim drugs. SG has prescribed Gonal-F for me, but when I asked about switching to a cheaper drug (Follistim or Bravelle) my RE said that they are all the same and that I could switch if I wanted to. Also, I found Alexandar's pharmacy to have the best prices for everything but Gonal-F. Good luck -- this process sucks enough without the money worries!!!!!

[Anonymous]

You might want to post an anonymous email address, so someone could contact you.

[Anonymous]

Also check the chat forums on places like Resolve and INCIID for suggestions about finding sources for cheaper or donated meds for cycles. I'm sorry you have to face this -- you certainly don't need another hurdle at this stage! -- but you've come this far and there's got to be a way to make it work.

[Anonymous]

I'm so sorry that you have to deal with this. I might have a Gonal-F pen and Menopur (though this is usually used in an IVF cycle, I think). Any way to contact you?

[Anonymous]

Which drugs do you need?

[Anonymous]

Thanks to everyone. I am still sad, but thankful for the encouragement. I just left a message for my doctor to see if they ever get donated drugs. I also checked some websites and even if I order from a pharmacy in Europe, it is still expensive. When discussing my medications, they told me Follistim 75 and Ovidrel would be my next steps. I have been on clomid for several months as we saved money for the IUIs. This drug is actually covered by my insurance, but even though it helped with my PCOS and I had good response, it never worked to help me get pregnant.

If anyone would like to reach me privately, my email is: hollydaly123 at yahoo dot com. Thank you all again.

[Anonymous]

If you can't get free Follistim, try asking if you can use Bravelle instead. I have heard that it is cheaper (although I have not priced it out myself). Good luck!!!!

[Anonymous]

OP here - has anyone ordered drugs from overseas? Is it reliable/safe? My doctor does not have free or low cost medications and prefers not to change my protocol to start. I am so desperate right now.

[Anonymous]

OP---
I have gonal F which you are welcome to f----it is interchangeable with follistim and bravelle.
I went to SG and they were fine with using gonal f (vs. follistim). Actually they ordered it because that's what my insurance would cover. This is the case with many patients.
Let me know if you are interested and I will post my email.

[Anonymous]

To the OP - there are several websites where you can buy leftover drugs at very discounted prices. I have two friends that have sold their leftovers online. Google, follistim for sale and you will find links to Topix and Shared Journeys which have the drugs for sale. Good Luck!

[Anonymous]

Go to the Infertility message board on The Bump - someone just posted a notice that she was collecting names to match people with others who have additional meds. The post was yesterday afternoon and although I can't remember the name of the post, it is something pretty obvious.

GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!

[Anonymous]

OP -- please take a look at this website and its program:

http://www.inciid.org/article.php?cat=&id=239

If you fall within their guidelines, ART can be free. Even if you don't fall within their guidelines, it is a huge resource for you to ask questions of others in your position.

HTH and good luck.