Ciprofloxacin (Cetraxal) Medicare Coverage

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary infections, bone and joint infections, eye infections, ear infections and more.

Ciprofloxacin is usually taken 2 to 3 times daily, depending on what type of infection is being treated. Ciprofloxacin blocks bacteria from reproducing, allowing the infection to heal.

Common side effects of Ciprofloxacin may include upset stomach, diarrhea and headache.

How much does Ciprofloxacin cost with Medicare?

Ciprofloxacin 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 Ciprofloxacin?

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

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Ciprofloxacin 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 2024 Medicare Advantage plans include 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 Ciprofloxacin. 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

Ciprofloxacin can be taken with or without food and should be taken with a full glass of water. If you experience an upset stomach, taking it with food can help. Do not take ciprofloxacin with dairy products like milk or yogurt.

Do not take ciprofloxacin 2 hours before or 6 hours after antacids or other products that contain magnesium, calcium, aluminum, iron, or zinc.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics have been associated with many different side effects including tendon problems, nerve pain, inability to focus, or memory problems or loss. Talk to your doctor if you have any severe side effects. Especially if you experience severe diarrhea, as it may be indicative of a more serious condition.

People often have allergic reactions to antibiotics. Tell your doctor if you experience signs of an allergic reaction including rash, itchiness, hives, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, 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.