Drugs never covered by Medicare
There are many drugs that no Medicare Part D plans will cover, based on national Medicare guidelines.
- Drugs for anorexia, weight loss, or weight gain (i.e., Xenical®, Meridia, phentermine HCl, etc.)
- Drugs that promote fertility (i.e., Clomid, Gonal-f, Ovidrel®, Follistim®, etc.)
- Drugs for cosmetic purposes or hair growth (i.e., Propecia®, Renova®, Vaniqa®, etc.)
- Drugs for the relief of cough and cold symptoms (i.e., Phenergan w/Codeine, Robitussin® AC, Tanafed, Tessalon® Perle, etc.)
- Prescription vitamins and mineral products, except prenatal vitamins and fluoride preparations (i.e., Nephrocaps, Foltx, Cyanocobalamin, etc.)
- Nonprescription drugs
- Drugs for sexual dysfunction (i.e., Viagra®, Cialis®, Levitra®, Muse®, Caverject®)
- Non-FDA-Approved products
- Drug efficacy study implementation (DESI) drugs (drugs the FDA has determined to be safe but not effective) See DESI drugs
- Bulk chemicals in the following STCs: U6I, U6Q, U6U, U6W, and U6X
Bulk chemicals do not meet the definition of a Part D-covered drug (FDA-approved, prescription medication with a compendial indication) - Devices (i.e., diaphragms)
- Ingredient/adjuvant (i.e., sterile water for injection)
- Line flush (i.e., normal saline IV flush, Heparin Sodium Lock Flush)
- Medical supplies (i.e., Biafine, ethyl alcohol)
- Drugs covered under Medicare Part A or Part B (i.e., Xeloda®, Temodar®, Advate)