Cephalexin (Keflex) Medicare Coverage

Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic that treats a variety of infections, including urinary infections, ear infections, respiratory infections and skin infections. Brand name equivalents of Cephalexin include Keftab, Keflet and Keflex.

Cephalexin is taken multiple times per day, and the dose depends on the type of infection you are treating. Cephalexin blocks bacteria from forming, allowing the infection to heal.

Common side effects of Cephalexin include stomach pain, diarrhea and upset stomach.

How much does Cephalexin cost with Medicare?

Cephalexin 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 Cephalexin?

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

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

It is very important to take your antibiotics as directed and finish your entire course of antibiotics as you were told by your doctor. If you stop taking your antibiotics early, there is a risk of the infection coming back.

Cephalexin can be taken with or without food, and taking it with food can help ease possible side effects of an upset stomach.

Talk to your doctor if you have any severe side effects, including signs of an allergic reaction. These may include rash, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, or swelling of the mouth, face or throat.

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.