Sertraline (Zoloft) Medicare Coverage

Sertraline is the generic form of the medication Zoloft.

Sertraline is used to treat major depressive disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and social anxiety disorder. It is typically taken once daily, and the dose can depend on your response to the drug.

Sertraline increases the amount of available serotonin in the brain to help improve the symptoms of depression.

Major side effects of Sertraline include feeling dizzy or weak, constipation, diarrhea, upset stomach, loss of appetite, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, excessive sweating and shakiness.

How much does Sertraline cost with Medicare?

Sertraline 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 Sertraline?

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

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

Sertraline tablets can be taken with or without food. Capsules must be taken with food.

Even if you begin to feel better, keep taking Sertraline as directed by your doctor. If Sertraline is stopped suddenly, it can cause severe side effects and withdrawal.

Talk to your doctor about slowly stopping Sertraline if you decide you do not want to be on it any longer. It can take up to 4 weeks to begin feeling the effects of this drug.

Serotonin syndrome can happen while taking Sertraline. Signs of serotonin syndrome includes agitation, change in balance, confusion, muscle twitching, abnormal heartbeat, seizures or extreme headaches. Talk to your doctor if you experience these symptoms or any other unusual side effects.

Antidepressants like Sertraline can sometimes cause an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children and young adult patients. Talk to your doctor if you have worsening suicidal thoughts.

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.