Citalopram (Celexa) Medicare Coverage

Citalopram is a medication typically used to treat depression and anxiety. Citalopram is usually taken once daily. The brand name equivalent of Citalopram is called Celexa.

Citalopram is an antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It decreases the symptoms of depression and anxiety by increasing the amount of serotonin in your brain.

The major side effects of Citalopram include dizziness, upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, insomnia, sweating, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, runny nose and headache.

How much does Citalopram cost with Medicare?

Citalopram 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 Citalopram?

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

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

You may not immediately notice the effects of Citalopram. It can take up to a month before you notice a change in symptoms. Do not stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor because you may experience extreme side effects and withdrawal.

You may experience more side effects with this medication if you are 65 or older.

Citalopram can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults taking this medication. If you have had suicidal thoughts or actions in the past, you may be at a higher risk.

Call your doctor if you experience restlessness, grouchiness, panic attacks or changes in mood or actions that are new or negative. If you have suicidal thoughts, call your doctor or go to the hospital immediately.

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.