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.

Does Medicare cover Reglan or Metoclopramide?

While some Medicare plans may not cover Reglan, some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans may cover generic Metoclopramide.

• 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 Metoclopramide.

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 Metoclopramide 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

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.