Giazo (Balsalazide) Medicare Coverage

Giazo is an Aminosalicylate medication that contains the active ingredient Balsalazide. Giazo is used to treat mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis.

Giazo works by decreasing inflammation and blocking acid production in the colon. It is typically taken 2-3 times daily for 8-12 weeks.

Common side effects of Giazo include headache, stomach pain, diarrhea, nose or throat irritation, common cold symptoms, joint pain and fatigue.

Does Medicare cover Giazo or Balsalazide?

While some Medicare plans may not cover Giazo, some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans may cover generic Balsalazide or other Aminosalicylates.

• 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 Balsalazide.

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 Giazo 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

Watch for signs of kidney or liver problems while taking Giazo. These can include the inability to pass urine, change in the amount of urine passed, blood in the urine, weight gain, stomach pain, vomiting and yellow skin or eyes.

Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms.

Some people can have a reaction to Giazo that feels like symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Talk to the doctor if you experience cramps, blood in the stool, fever, headache or rash.

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.