Nardil (Phenelzine) Medicare Coverage

Nardil is a medication that contains the active ingredient Phenelzine. It is used to treat depression and is typically taken 3 times daily.

Nardil works by increasing levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in the brain to improve symptoms of depression.

Common side effects of Nardil include headache, constipation, insomnia, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, upset stomach, weight gain and shakiness.

How much does Phenelzine cost with Medicare Advantage?

Phenelzine coverage and costs may vary based on the specific plan you have, as well as what coverage stage you're in.

Contact your plan carrier or consult your plan formulary for more cost information.

Does Medicare Advantage cover Phenelzine?

According to GoodRx, 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Phenelzine, the generic form of Nardil, in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Phenelzine include copay amounts that can range widely from one plan to another. Plan members may also be responsible for meeting a deductible before the plan’s drug coverage kicks in.
  
  
• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). 89% of 2023 Medicare Advantage plans included prescription drug coverage.²
  
  
• 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 Phenelzine. We represent carriers such as Humana, Aetna, UHC, Anthem BCBS, Wellcare, Cigna Healthcare, and Kaiser Permanente.

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.

Additional information

Foods like cheese and wine can cause sudden, severe high blood pressure when taking Nardil. Talk to your doctor about what foods to avoid while taking this medication.

If you stop taking Nardil, follow the recommended diet for at least 2 weeks after your last dose.

Nardil has increased the chance of suicidal thoughts in young adults who take it. This risk is very serious and is increased in people who have experienced suicidal thoughts in the past.

Talk to the doctor if symptoms of depression worsen or if you have suicidal thoughts. Nardil is not approved for use in children.

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.