Cabergoline (Dostinex) Medicare Coverage

Cabergoline is a medication that is used to treat high prolactin levels, which can contribute to conditions referred to as hyperprolactinemic disorders. Some tumors can also be contributing causes to high prolactin levels.

Cabergoline works by increasing dopamine, which decreases the secretion of prolactin. It is typically taken 1-2 times weekly. The brand name equivalent of Cabergoline is called Dostinex.

Common side effects of Cabergoline include constipation, dizziness, headache, upset stomach and fatigue.

How much does Cabergoline cost with Medicare?

Cabergoline coverage and costs may vary based on the specific plan you have, as well as what coverage stage you're in.

Contact your plan carrier or consult your plan formulary for more cost information.

Does Medicare cover Cabergoline?

According to GoodRx, 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans cover Cabergoline in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Cabergoline include copay amounts that can range widely from one plan to another. Plan members may also be responsible for meeting a deductible before the plan’s drug coverage kicks in.
  
  
• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). 89% of 2023 Medicare Advantage plans included prescription drug coverage.²
  
  
• Medicare prescription drugs plans each have their own formulary, or drug list, that details what prescription drugs are covered by the plan and how they are covered.

Drug coverage may vary based on plan availability. You may be able to find Medicare Advantage plan options in your area that cover Cabergoline. We represent carriers such as Humana, UnitedHealthcare^®, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna Healthcare, Wellcare, or Kaiser Permanente.

You can also compare Part D prescription drug plans available where you live and enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan online when you visit MyRxPlans.com.

Additional information

High prolactin levels are normal during pregnancy and after childbirth. Too much prolactin outside of these scenarios can cause symptoms such as abnormal lactation, irregular periods, breast pain, menopausal symptoms and – in some cases – infertility. Hyperprolactinemia can also affect men.

Since Cabergoline is taken 1-2 times weekly, it may be helpful to set reminders on your phone or to use a pill box in order to not miss doses. Do not take 2 doses at the same time, even if you missed a previous dose.

Let your doctor know if you experience any signs of kidney problems while taking Cabergoline. This may include changes in urination, blood in your urine or changes in weight.

While taking Cabergoline, look for signs of weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, difficulty thinking clearly, changes in balance, one side of the face dropping or blurry eyesight. These can be signs of stroke and are considered an emergency medical problem.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not healthcare advice, treatment, or diagnosis. It is not an endorsement of or recommendation for this medication. Speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about your specific healthcare needs, including your prescription medications. Only take medication as directed by your doctor.

Coverage and costs of prescription medications will vary by Medicare plan. Not all plans are available in all areas.

Written by Hayden Gharibyar, Pharm.D.