Armodafinil (Nuvigil) Medicare Coverage

Armodafinil is a medication used to improve wakefulness in patients who have obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy or issues with sleep due to shift-work disorder. The brand name version of Armodafinil is called Nuvigil.

This medication is typically taken once daily in the morning for narcolepsy and sleep apnea, and it can be taken prior to working for someone who has shift-work disorder.

Armodafinil works in the brain to increase dopamine levels and increase alertness. Common side effects of armodafinil include headache, dizziness, upset stomach, insomnia and dry mouth.

How much does Armodafinil cost with Medicare?

Armodafinil 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 Armodafinil?

According to GoodRx, 92% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Armodafinil in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Armodafinil 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 Armodafinil. 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

Armodafinil can be habit forming with long term use. If you still feel tired after taking your dose, talk to your doctor. Stopping Armodafinil suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Let your doctor know if you have signs of suicidal thoughts, mood swings or other negative changes in mood.

Armodafinil can potentially raise your blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if you experience headache, dizziness, fainting or changes in eyesight, as these could be indicative of high blood pressure.

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.