Buspirone (Buspar) Medicare Coverage

Buspirone is used to treat generalized anxiety disorder. The brand name equivalent of Buspirone is called Buspar.

Buspirone is typically taken 2-3 times daily and works by increasing serotonin and dopamine in the brain to help relieve anxiety.

Common side effects of Buspirone include dizziness, sleepiness, nervousness, headache and upset stomach.

Does Medicare cover Buspirone or Buspar?

Some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans may cover Buspirone.

• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). Most Medicare Advantage beneficiaries (88 percent) are enrolled in MA-PDs.¹
  
  
• 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 Buspirone.

Or call 1-800-557-6059 1-800-557-6059 TTY Users: 711 24/7 to speak with a licensed insurance agent.

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.

Average costs for Buspirone with Medicare drug coverage

Your copay and deductible costs for any prescription drug can vary depending on what coverage stage you’re in and the Medicare drug plan you have.

Additional information

It may take time to feel the effects of Buspirone. You may need to continually take Buspirone for a few weeks to begin feeling the effects.

Talk to your doctor if you experience trouble controlling body movements or if you experience changes in balance, abnormal heartbeat, seizures, shivering, shaking, sweating, diarrhea or extreme headaches.

The symptoms listed above could be indicative of a condition called serotonin syndrome, which can happen to people who are taking Buspirone.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Buspirone. Also avoid grapefruit juice or grapefruit products while taking Buspirone, as this may interfere with how well the medication works.

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.