Relafen (Nabumetone) Medicare Coverage

Relafen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication that contains the active ingredient Nabumetone. It is used to treat signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Relafen has anti-inflammatory, pain relief and fever reducing properties. The Relafen brand has been discontinued in the United States, but Nabumetone is available. It is typically taken 1-2 times daily.

Common side effects include headache, stomach pain, heartburn, upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, gas and dizziness.

How much does Nabumetone cost with Medicare?

Nabumetone 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 Nabumetone?

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

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

Take your Nabumetone dose (or doses) with a full glass of water.

Nabumetone can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. This risk may be higher in people who already have heart disease or if you have risks for heart disease. These events can happen within the first few weeks of starting Nabumetone and the risk may be higher with higher doses or with long-term use.

Avoid using Nabumetone right before or after heart bypass surgery

Negative stomach or bowel side effects can happen while taking Nabumetone. The risk is higher in older adults who take it and in people who have had stomach or bowel ulcers or bleeding before.

Other problems that can happen while taking Nabumetone include kidney problems, bleeding issues, high potassium and skin problems.

Let your doctor know if you notice any unusual symptoms while taking Nabumetone.

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.