Atrovent (Ipratropium) Medicare Coverage

Atrovent is a medication that contains the active ingredient Ipratropium. It is used to treat seasonal allergies, chronic allergies and common colds.

Atrovent works in the nasal passages to block mucous production and clear the airways. It comes as a nasal spray that is typically used 2-3 times daily.

Common side effects of Atrovent include nose or throat irritation, dry nose, headache and common cold symptoms.

How much does Ipratropium cost with Medicare?

Ipratropium 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 Ipratropium?

According to GoodRx, 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Ipratropium, the generic form of Atrovent, in 2023.¹

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

For chronic allergies, Atrovent may be used for a long time. Atrovent is only used for up to 4 days for common colds, and only up to 3 weeks for seasonal allergies.

Before using for the first time, prime the nasal spray by spraying around 7 sprays away from yourself or others. Repeat the priming step if the spray hasn’t been used in 7 days or more.

Blow your nose before using. Be sure to follow the directions that come with the medication and use as directed by your doctor.

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.