Azelastine (Atepro/Optivar/Astelin) Medicare Coverage

Azelastine is a histamine blocker used to treat allergies. It is the generic version of brand name drugs Atepro, Optivar and Astelin.

Azelastine comes as a nasal spray inhaler that is used to treat systemic allergy symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. The eye drop version is used to treat allergy symptoms of the eye like itchiness and watery eyes. The nasal spray is used 1-2 times daily while the eye drop is used 2 times daily.

Azelastine blocks histamine in the body and prevents it from causing allergy symptoms.

Common side effects of the nasal spray include sleepiness, headache, cough, sneezing, nose or throat irritation, changes in taste, upset stomach, nosebleed, dry mouth, dizziness and weight gain.

Common side effects of the Azelastine eye drop include headache, burning or stinging of the eyes and a bad taste in your mouth.

Does Medicare cover Azelastine?

Yes! 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans cover Azelastine.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). Most Medicare Advantage beneficiaries (88 percent) are enrolled in MA-PDs.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 Azelastine.

Or call 1-800-557-6059 1-800-557-6059 TTY Users: 711 24/7 to speak with a licensed insurance agent.

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.

Average costs for Azelastine with Medicare drug coverage¹

Your copay and deductible costs for any prescription drug can vary depending on what coverage stage you’re in.

Additional information

If you are using the Azelastine nasal spray, it Is best to point the nozzle away from the middle wall of the nose. Blow your nose before use and inhale the medication deeply with each spray.

If you are using the Azelastine eye drop, wash your hands before and after you use them. You should remove contact lenses before using the eye drop. You can put your contacts back in 10 minutes after you use the eyedrop.

Azelastine is typically well tolerated by people who take it. However, you should talk to your doctor if you have any changes in eyesight, eye pain or bad eye irritation while using the eye drop.

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.