Ventolin Medicare Coverage

Ventolin is a medication that contains the active ingredient Albuterol. Ventolin is used to treat acute worsening episodes (or exacerbations) of asthma and COPD.

This medication is typically used only when needed during an asthma or COPD attack. Ventolin helps your muscles in your throat relax to reduce restriction and help you breathe better.

The major side effects of Ventolin include nervousness and excitation, headache, dizziness, upset stomach and shakiness. You may also experience throat irritation and runny nose.

How much does Azelastin cost with Medicare?

Azelastin 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 Azelastin?

According to GoodRx, 67% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Azelastin, the generic form of Ventolin, in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Azelastin 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 2024 Medicare Advantage plans include 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 Azelastin. 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

This medication is a rescue inhaler should only be used for quick relief of asthma or COPD symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you are having to use your rescue inhaler very often, as you may need another medication for better control of your symptoms.

If you have high blood sugar or diabetes, you may need to watch your blood sugar closely, as Ventolin can increase your blood sugar levels.

Tell your doctor or go to a hospital immediately if your breathing becomes worse after using Ventolin.

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.