Bentyl (Dicyclomine) Medicare Coverage

Bentyl is a medication that contains the active ingredient Dicyclomine. Bentyl is used to treat abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Bentyl blocks a chemical called acetylcholine in the muscles to decrease IBS pain. It can be taken up to 4 times daily, and some health care providers may recommend only taking it as needed.

Common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, blurred eyesight, upset stomach, nervousness, dry mouth, increased thirst, dry skin, insomnia and constipation.

How much does Dicyclomine cost with Medicare?

Dicyclomine 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 Dicyclomine?

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

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

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic illness that affects the large intestine. Irritable bowel syndrome is usually associated with cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation.

IBS symptoms can sometimes be managed by diet changes and stress reduction, but pharmacologic treatment can help control symptoms.

Bentyl may make you sleepy. Make sure you know how Bentyl affects you before doing potentially dangerous activities like driving. 

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.