Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine) Medicare Coverage

Pristiq is a medication that contains the active ingredient Desvenlafaxine. Pristiq is used to treat major depressive disorder.

Pristiq increases levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. It is typically taken once daily.

Common side effects of Pristiq include dizziness, upset stomach, throwing up, constipation, dry mouth, insomnia, loss of appetite, fatigue and sweating.

How much does Desvenlafaxine Succinate ER cost with Medicare?

Desvenlafaxine Succinate ER 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 Desvenlafaxine Succinate ER?

According to GoodRx, 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Desvenlafaxine Succinate ER, the generic form of Pristiq, in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Desvenlafaxine Succinate ER 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 Desvenlafaxine Succinate ER. 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

Pristiq can increase the chances of having suicidal thoughts in some people who take it. Stop taking Pristiq and call your doctor if you experience worsening depression, grouchiness, panic attacks, nervousness, restlessness or extreme changes in mood.

Pristiq can cause some serious side effects. Get medical help immediately if you throw up blood, cough up blood, find blood in your urine or stool or experience any other abnormal bleeding. Watch for signs of high blood pressure while taking Pristiq, including headache or dizziness, changes in eyesight or passing out.

Tell your doctor if you experience any other abnormal side effects while taking Pristiq including breathing problems, chest pain or pressure, seizures, fatigue or hallucinations.

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.