Casodex (Bicalutamide) Medicare Coverage

Casodex is a medication that contains the active ingredient Bicalutamide. Casodex is used in combination with other medications to treat metastatic prostate cancer.

Casodex prevents testosterone from promoting cell growth in prostate cancer cells. It is taken once daily.

Common side effects of Casodex include hot flashes, upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, fatigue, sweating, back pain, headaches and anxiety.

Does Medicare cover Casodex or Bicalutamide?

While some Medicare plans may not cover Casodex, some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans may cover Bicalutamide.

• 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 Bicalutamide.

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 Bicalutamide 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

Casodex can increase your risk of high blood sugar or developing diabetes. Casodex can worsen diabetes symptoms if you already have diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

Signs of high blood sugar include increased thirst and hunger, flushing, rapid breathing or breath that smells like fruit.

You can get sunburned more easily while taking Casodex. Take precautions by avoiding direct sunlight, avoiding tanning beds, using sunscreen and wearing sun-protective clothing.

Watch for signs of infection while taking Casodex. Talk to your doctor if you think you have an infection. Signs of infection include fever, chills, sore throat, cough and ear or sinus pain.

Taking Casodex can increase your risk for certain liver and lung problems.

Signs of liver problems include fatigue, upset stomach, light-colored stools or yellow skin and eyes. Signs of lung problems include shortness of breath or a cough that is new or worse. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

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.