Effexor (Venlafaxine) Medicare Coverage

Effexor is a medication that contains the active ingredient Venlafaxine. Effexor is used to treat a variety of disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder.

Effexor is typically taken 1-3 times daily, depending on what type of symptoms are being treated. Effexor comes in a long-acting or short-acting formulation.

Common side effects of Effexor include insomnia, exitability, weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, dizziness, shakiness, headache, sweating, upset stomach, constipation, gas, dry mouth and strange dreams.

Does Medicare cover Effexor or Venlafaxine?

While some Medicare plans may not cover Effexor, some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans may cover Venlafaxine.

• 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 Venlafaxine.

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 Venlafaxine 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

Effexor can increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions in young adults. Follow up with your doctor closely and talk to them if you experience signs of worsening depression or anxiety, or if you have any suicidal thoughts.

Take your Effexor dose with food, at the same time of day every day.

Continue taking Effexor even if you don’t notice a difference, or if you start to feel better. You may have to take Effexor for a few weeks to start feeling the effects.

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.