Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim (Bactrim) Medicare Coverage

Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim is an antibiotic typically used to treat many different infections including urinary infections, lung infections and COPD exacerbations due to bacteria.

The brand name equivalents of Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim include Bactrim, Sulfatrim and Septra. The dose varies depending on what type of infection you are treating.

This antibiotic stops the growth and reproduction of bacteria in the body. The major side effects with Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim include upset stomach, diarrhea and loss of appetite.

How much does Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim cost with Medicare?

Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim 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 Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim?

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

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim 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 Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim. 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

It is very important to take your full course of antibiotics, even if you start to feel better. Your infection to return and get worse if you stop taking your antibiotics too soon.

Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim can be taken with or without food. This antibiotic should be taken with a full glass of water. It is also recommended to drink a lot of non-caffeinated liquids throughout the day.

Talk to your doctor if you have any severe side effects, especially if you experience severe diarrhea, as it may be indicative of a more serious condition.

People often have allergic reactions to antibiotics. Tell your doctor if you experience signs of an allergic reaction including rash, itchiness, hives or other reactions.

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.