Montelukast (Singulair) Medicare Coverage

Montelukast is the generic form of the brand name drug called Singulair. Montelukast is used to treat allergies, asthma and exercise-induced asthma prevention.

Montelukast is typically only taken once daily. If you are using Montelukast for prevention of exercise induced asthma, you should take your dose at least 2 hours prior to exercise.

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks substances in the body that cause symptoms of asthma and allergies. The most common side effects of Montelukast include headache, upset stomach, diarrhea, signs of a common cold and cough.

How much does Montelukast cost with Medicare?

Montelukast 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 Montelukast?

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

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Montelukast 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 2023 Medicare Advantage plans included 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 Montelukast. 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 can take Montelukast with or without food. If you are taking Montelukast for asthma or allergies, keep taking this medication even if you feel better. If you are using this drug for asthma, take your dose in the evening.

Montelukast has been shown to sometimes cause changes in behavior in some people who take it. Call your doctor if you are experiencing signs of a dramatic change in mood, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, emotional mood swings, abnormal thoughts or anxiety.

Call your doctor if you begin having skin problems while taking this drug. A skin condition called Stevens-Johnson syndrome can happen. Signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; or sores in your mouth, throat, nose or eyes.

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.