Descovy (Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide) Medicare Coverage

Descovy is a medication that contains a combination of the medications emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide. It is used to treat HIV-1 infection in combination with other agents.

Descovy is taken once daily. It works by interfering with the replication of the HIV virus.

A common side effect of Descovy includes upset stomach.

How much does Descovy cost with Medicare?

Descovy 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 Descovy?

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

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

While Descovy is effective at treating HIV, it has shown to worsen existing infections of Hepatitis B after the drug is stopped. If you have a history of a hepatitis B infection, tell your doctor so they can closely monitor you.

Descovy is not a cure for HIV and does not stop the transmission of HIV through blood or by sexual contact.

This medication can cause liver swelling and an acid health problem in the blood. Signs of liver problems include fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, upset stomach, abdominal pain and yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Signs of too much acid in the blood (called lactic acidosis) include rapid breathing or heartbeat, upset stomach, vomiting, dizziness and muscle pain or cramps.

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.