Xopenex (Levalbuterol) Medicare Coverage

Xopenex is a medication that contains the active ingredient Levalbuterol. It is used to treat airway diseases that cause spasms (bronchospasms) which can lead to breathing problems. These conditions include asthma and COPD, among others.

Xopenex relaxes smooth muscles in the airways to help breathing return to normal. The Xopenex inhaler is typically used every 4-6 hours as needed. The nebulization solution is used 3 times daily.

Common side effects include feeling nervous or excitable, headache, dizziness, runny nose, throat irritation, shakiness and diarrhea.

Does Medicare cover Xopenex or Levalbuterol?

While some Medicare plans may not cover Xopenex, some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans may cover Levalbuterol.

• 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 Levalbuterol.

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 Levalbuterol 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

The inhaler should only be used by breathing it into the lungs.

Shake well before using the inhaler. Prime the inhaler before first use or when the inhaler hasn’t been used for 3 days or more. Press the button and inhale quickly.

If you have trouble inhaling the medication quickly, talk to your doctor about getting a spacer or using the nebulizer solution.

Xopenex can sometimes cause breathing problems to become worse. Get emergency medical help if you have trouble breathing, breathing that gets worse, wheezing or coughing. Xopenex can also cause high or low blood pressure and low potassium levels.

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.