Atorvastatin (Lipitor) Medicare Coverage

Atorvastatin is a medication commonly used to treat high cholesterol and to help prevent heart attacks and strokes. It is usually given as a generic medication, but the brand name (Lipitor) is also available.

Atorvastatin is typically taken once daily, and the dose may depend on the extent of your high cholesterol.

The most common side effects of this drug include muscle pain, joint pain, upset stomach and trouble sleeping.

How much does Atorvastatin cost with Medicare?

Atorvastatin 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 Atorvastatin?

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

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

You may not be able to feel the effects of Atorvastatin working. Do not stop taking Atorvastatin without first talking to your doctor about it.

Muscle and joint pain can be a common side effect of taking Atorvastatin.

If you experience severe muscle pains, let your doctor know. It may mean that you started on too high of a dose, or that you may need to try another medication.

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.