See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor Covered by Medicare: A Comprehensive Guide

Medicare is a government-funded health insurance program that provides coverage to millions of Americans aged 65 and older, as well as those with certain disabilities. One of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States is Lipitor, a cholesterol-lowering drug used to treat high cholesterol and heart disease. In this article, we will explore whether Lipitor is covered by Medicare and what you need to know about getting coverage for this medication.

What is Lipitor?

Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a statin medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It is one of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States, with over 30 million prescriptions filled annually. Lipitor works by blocking the production of cholesterol in the liver, which helps to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

Is Lipitor Covered by Medicare?

Lipitor is a prescription medication, and as such, it is covered by Medicare Part D, which is the prescription drug coverage portion of Medicare. Medicare Part D is a voluntary program that provides coverage for prescription medications, including Lipitor.

How to Get Coverage for Lipitor under Medicare Part D

To get coverage for Lipitor under Medicare Part D, you will need to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan. There are several Medicare Part D plans available, and each plan has its own list of covered medications, including Lipitor. You can enroll in a Medicare Part D plan during the annual enrollment period, which typically runs from October 15 to December 7.

What You Need to Know About Medicare Part D Plans

When selecting a Medicare Part D plan, it's essential to consider the following factors:

* Formulary: A formulary is a list of covered medications, including Lipitor. Make sure the plan you choose has Lipitor on its formulary.
* Cost: Medicare Part D plans have different copays and coinsurance rates for medications. Choose a plan with a low copay or coinsurance rate for Lipitor.
* Coverage gap: The coverage gap, also known as the "donut hole," is a phase of Medicare Part D coverage where you pay a higher percentage of the cost of your medications. Choose a plan with a low or no coverage gap.
* Premium: Medicare Part D plans have different premium rates. Choose a plan with a low premium rate.

Lipitor Pricing and Cost

The cost of Lipitor can vary depending on the dosage and form of the medication. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the average wholesale price of Lipitor is around $140 per month. However, with Medicare Part D coverage, you may be able to reduce the cost of Lipitor.

Tips for Reducing the Cost of Lipitor

Here are some tips for reducing the cost of Lipitor:

* Generic alternatives: Lipitor is available in a generic form, which is often cheaper than the brand-name version.
* Discount cards: Discount cards, such as the Patient Assistance Program, can help reduce the cost of Lipitor.
* Manufacturer coupons: Pfizer, the manufacturer of Lipitor, offers a coupon program that can help reduce the cost of the medication.
* Mail-order pharmacies: Mail-order pharmacies, such as CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens, often offer lower prices for Lipitor than retail pharmacies.

Conclusion

Lipitor is a widely prescribed medication that is covered by Medicare Part D. To get coverage for Lipitor, you need to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan and choose a plan with Lipitor on its formulary. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can find a plan that meets your needs and reduces the cost of Lipitor.

Key Takeaways

* Lipitor is a prescription medication that is covered by Medicare Part D.
* To get coverage for Lipitor, you need to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan.
* Choose a plan with Lipitor on its formulary and a low copay or coinsurance rate.
* Consider the coverage gap and premium rate when selecting a plan.
* Look for generic alternatives, discount cards, manufacturer coupons, and mail-order pharmacies to reduce the cost of Lipitor.

FAQs

1. Is Lipitor covered by Medicare Part D?
Yes, Lipitor is covered by Medicare Part D.
2. How do I get coverage for Lipitor under Medicare Part D?
Enroll in a Medicare Part D plan and choose a plan with Lipitor on its formulary.
3. What are the factors I should consider when selecting a Medicare Part D plan?
Formulary, cost, coverage gap, and premium rate.
4. How can I reduce the cost of Lipitor?
Consider generic alternatives, discount cards, manufacturer coupons, and mail-order pharmacies.
5. Can I get a discount on Lipitor?
Yes, Pfizer offers a coupon program that can help reduce the cost of Lipitor.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin (Lipitor). Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/atorvastatin-lipitor>
2. Medicare.gov. (n.d.). Medicare Part D. Retrieved from <https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/part-d-costs>
3. Pfizer.com. (n.d.). Lipitor Patient Assistance Program. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/healthcare-professionals/patient-assistance-program/lipitor-patient-assistance-program>