Reglan (Metoclopramide) Medicare Coverage

Reglan is a medication that contains the active ingredient Metoclopramide. It is used to treat chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting, acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastroparesis (when the stomach is unable to completely empty itself).

Reglan increases muscle contractions in the upper digestive system to facilitate movement and relieve gastroparesis. It prevents and treats nausea by blocking the effects of dopamine.

Reglan is typically taken before chemotherapy, or every 6 hours as needed to treat the relevant condition.

Common side effects of Reglan include upset stomach and fatigue.

How much does Metoclopramide cost with Medicare?

Metoclopramide 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 cover Reglan or Metoclopramide?

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

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Metoclopramide 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 Metoclopramide. 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

A muscle problem called tardive dyskinesia – which can cause involuntary muscle movements – can happen after taking Reglan. These symptoms usually stop after ceasing to take Reglan, but they may not completely go away.

The risk for tardive dyskinesia is higher if you are older or if you have diabetes. Call the doctor if you experience trouble controlling body movements or problems with your tongue, face, mouth or jaw.

It is not recommended to take Reglan for more than 12 weeks at a time.

Talk to your doctor if you experience suicidal thoughts. This is a rare but dangerous side effect of Reglan.

Talk to your doctor if you experience depression, restlessness or panic attacks, and get immediate help if you experience thoughts of suicide.

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.