Diclofenac Sodium (Voltaren/Diclofex) Medicare Coverage

Diclofenac sodium is an anti-inflammatory medication used to treat arthritis, menstrual pain, migraines and general pain. The brand name equivalents of Diclofenac sodium include Voltaren, Diclofex DC, Solaraze and Pennsaid.

How you take Diclofenac sodium and your dose will depend on what you are treating. Diclofenac sodium comes as an eye drop for the treatment of postoperative eye swelling, eye pain and sensitivity to light. It may come as a topical cream for other types of pain treatment.

If you are taking Diclofenac sodium by mouth, common side effects include headache, upset stomach, constipation, dizziness, diarrhea, gas, fatigue and signs of a common cold.

If you are using Diclofenac sodium topically on the skin, common side effects include skin irritation and headache.

Does Medicare cover Diclofenac Sodium or Voltaren?

Yes! 90% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans cover Diclofenac sodium.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 Diclofenac sodium.

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 Diclofenac Sodium 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

Diclofenac sodium can increase your risk of heart and blood vessel side effects like heart attack and stroke. The risk of these side effects is greater if you have heart disease or are at risk for heart disease.

This medication is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication that can cause bleeding, ulcers or perforation of the stomach. If you are taking this medication by mouth, take with a full glass of water. If you take this medication with food, it may not work as well.

If you are using this medication topically, do not take it by mouth. Use it on your skin only. Wash your hands before and after use.

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.