Urso Forte (Ursodiol) Medicare Coverage

Urso Forte is a medication that contains the active ingredient Ursodiol. Urso Forte is used to treat an autoimmune liver condition called primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) in adults, children and infants. It’s also used to break up gallstones.

Urso Forte blocks the enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol to reduce cholesterol in the liver and bile. It is typically taken 2-4 times daily.

Common side effects of Urso Forte include headache, dizziness, back pain, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, vomiting, heartburn, muscle pain, signs of a common cold and hair loss.

How much does Ursodiol cost with Medicare?

Ursodiol 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 Ursodiol?

According to GoodRx, 98% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Ursodiol, the generic form of Urso Forte in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Ursodiol 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 2024 Medicare Advantage plans include 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 Ursodiol. We represent carriers such as Humana, UnitedHealthcare^®, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna Healthcare, Wellcare, or 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

Take each dose of Urso Forte with food.

You may be at a higher risk of getting a urinary tract infection while taking Urso Forte. Tell your doctor if you experience burning or pain when going to the bathroom, if you feel the need to urinate often or if you experience fever, stomach pain or pelvic pain.

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.