Phenobarbital (Luminal) Medicare Coverage

Phenobarbital is used as a sedative and to treat generalized, tonic-clonic, status epilepticus and partial seizures. It is a barbiturate that has sedative and anticonvulsant properties.

Phenobarbital is typically taken once or multiple times daily. The brand name equivalent of Phenobarbital is called Luminal.

Common side effects of Phenobarbital include drowsiness, headache and upset stomach.

How much does Phenobarbital cost with Medicare Advantage?

Phenobarbital 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 Advantage cover Phenobarbital?

According to GoodRx, 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Phenobarbital in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Phenobarbital 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 Phenobarbital. We represent carriers such as Humana, Aetna, UHC, Anthem BCBS, Wellcare, Cigna Healthcare, and 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

You may build a tolerance to the effects of Phenobarbital over time if you have been taking it for a long time or if you have taken high doses. This can make the drug not work as effectively.

Do not increase your dose without talking to your doctor. Do not stop taking Phenobarbital suddenly or without talking to your doctor.

Make sure you know how the sedative side effects of Phenobarbital impact you before driving or doing other activities that require your full attention. It is recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Phenobarbital.

Birth control effectiveness can be impacted by Phenobarbital. Use a second type of contraception while using this medication.

Phenobarbital is a C-IV controlled substance due to its low potential for abuse and misuse.

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.