Copaxone (Glatiramer Acetate) Medicare Coverage

Copaxone is a medication that contains the active ingredient Glatiramer Acetate. It is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. This includes relapsing-remitting disease, clinically isolated syndrome and secondary progressive disease.

Copaxone is believed to prevent the production of immune cells that target and attack an important part of nerve cells called myelin. It is typically taken either once daily or 3 times per week.

Common side effects of Copaxone include irritation where you give the injection, upset stomach, vomiting, fatigue and back pain.

How much does Glatiramer or Glatopa cost with Medicare?

Glatiramer or Glatopa 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 Glatiramer or Glatopa?

According to GoodRx, 71% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Glatiramer or Glatopa, the generic forms of Copaxone, in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Glatiramer or Glatopa 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 Glatiramer or Glatopa. 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

If you use Copaxone 3 times per week, each injection should be administered at least 48 hours apart.

Copaxone should be stored in the refrigerator. If stored at room temperature, it must be thrown away after 30 days.

Inject Copaxone into fatty skin. It can be given in the stomach, thigh, outer hip or the upper arm if someone else is administering the shot. Choose a new spot to inject the medicine each time you use it. Always use new needles for injection.

Copaxone can increase your risk for getting an infection. Signs of infection include sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, fever or chills. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.

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.