Avodart (Dutasteride) Medicare Coverage

Avodart is a medication that contains the active medicine Dutasteride. Avodart is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is an enlarged prostate.

Avodart stops the creation of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone that contributes to BPH and the associated symptoms. It is typically taken one time daily.

Common side effects of Avodart include dizziness and a change in libido.

How much does Dutasteride cost with Medicare?

Dutasteride 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 Dutasteride?

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

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

Avodart can be taken with or without food. It is typically well tolerated, but let your doctor know if you experience enlarged breasts, breast pain, nipple discharge or worsened depression.

Rarely, men taking Avodart have developed a form of prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about the risk and ask about regular prostate monitoring. Avodart may also affect sperm in men.

It is not recommended to donate blood while using Avodart, or within 6 months after stopping the medication.

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.