Cimetidine (Tagamet) Medicare Coverage

Cimetidine is a medication used to treat or prevent ulcers in the duodenum, ulcers of the stomach, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions where too much acid is secreted.

The brand name equivalent of Cimetidine is called Tagamet.

Cimetidine works by blocking the actions of a chemical called histamine in the stomach cells. This reduces acid secretion to reduce painful symptoms. It is taken 1 to 4 times daily, depending on what you are treating.

Side effects are uncommon with Cimetidine.

Does Medicare cover Cimetidine or Tagamet?

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

• 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 Cimetidine.

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 Cimetidine 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

Take Cimetidine with meals and at bedtime as instructed by your doctor. Avoid taking any antacid medications at the same time as Cimetidine. To prevent heartburn, take Cimetidine 30 minutes before eating food or drinking liquids that can cause heartburn.

Liver problems can – but rarely – happen while taking Cimetidine. Signs of liver problems include dark urine, fatigue, upset stomach, vomitting or yellow skin or eyes.

If you are 50 years or older, you may experience more side effects while taking this medication. Watch for signs of confusion, agitation, mood changes or hallucinations. Also talk to the doctor if you experience chest pain, throat pain, signs of bleeding or bad abdominal pain.

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.