Amlodipine (Amvaz/Norvasc) Medicare Coverage

Amlodipine – also called amlodipine besylate – is a medication that is often given to treat high blood pressure. Amlodipine is the generic equivalent of brand name drugs called Amvaz and Novasc.

Amlodipine Is typically given once daily, but the dose depends on the extent of your high blood pressure and the severity of your chest pains. Amlodipine blocks calcium to help relax your blood vessels and ultimately lower your blood pressure.

The most common side effects patients experience with Amlodipine include feeling sleepy or weak, upset stomach and dizziness.

How much does Amlodipine cost with Medicare?

Amlodipine 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 Amlodipine?

According to GoodRx, 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Amlodipine in 2023.¹

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

Do not stop taking Amlodipine without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better after taking the medicine or don’t notice any difference. Amlodipine can help lower your blood pressure and help prevent heart attack and stroke, so you should not stop taking it suddenly without your doctor’s consent.

Dizziness is a common side effect with Amlodipine, but tell your doctor right away if it becomes severe or if you pass out.

Also contact your doctor if you experience new or worsening chest pain, a very rapid or abnormal heartbeat, swelling in your arms and legs or abnormal muscle movements.

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.