Elavil (Amitriptyline) Medicare Coverage

Elavil was a brand name medication that contained the active ingredient Amitriptyline. Elavil was discontinued, but the generic form Amitriptyline is still available for use to treat major depressive disorder.

Amitriptyline is typically taken once or multiple times daily depending on your dose. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the brain to help treat depression.

Common side effects of Amitriptyline include constipation, dizziness, fatigue, headache, upset stomach, loss of appetite, diarrhea, anxiety, change in taste and changes in weight.

How much does Amitriptyline cost with Medicare?

Amitriptyline 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 Amitriptyline?

According to GoodRx, 99% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Amitriptyline, the generic form of Elavil, in 2023.¹

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

Amitriptyline can make you feel tired and/or fatigued. If you take Amitriptyline once a day, take your dose before bedtime so you are not sleepy during the day.

Amitriptyline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in young adults who are taking it. Call the doctor right away if you experience worsening mood, nervousness, restlessness, panic attacks or other changes in mood. Get immediate help if suicidal thoughts or actions occur.

Stopping Amitriptyline suddenly can increase your risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. If you want to stop this medication, your doctor will give you instructions to slowly stop the medication.

Amitriptyline can make you more sensitive to the sun. You may sunburn easily while taking this medication.

Other problems can arise as a result of taking Amitriptyline. These include problems with blood sugar, blood pressure, eye problems and muscle problems. If you are 65 or older, you may be at a higher risk of experiencing side effects.

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.