Somavert (Pegvisomant) Medicare Coverage

Somavert is a medication that contains the active ingredient Pegvisomant. It is used to treat acromegaly, or abnormal growth hormone disorder, in patients who cannot receive or have had an inadequate response to surgery or radiation therapy.

Somavert is typically injected just underneath the skin once daily. It blocks growth hormone in the body from binding to cells and also decreases other growth factors.

Common side effects of Somavert include diarrhea, back pain, upset stomach, flu-like symptoms, signs of a common cold and runny or stuffy nose.

Does Medicare cover Somavert or Pegvisomant?

Yes, some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans may cover Somavert.

• 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 Somavert.

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.

Additional information

Somavert is an injection given into the fatty part of the skin in the upper arm, thigh, buttocks or stomach area. Wash your hands before and after use.

This medication should be mixed before use. Do not shake the mixture.

Each day that you give the shot, move the injection site where you give it. Avoid giving the shot into irritated or red skin. Use a new needle with each dose.

Somavert can sometimes cause liver problems. Your doctor will monitor for this, but watch for signs of dark urine, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, throwing up or yellow skin or eyes.  

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.