Azelastine (Atepro/Optivar/Astelin) Medicare Coverage

Azelastine is a histamine blocker used to treat allergies. It is the generic version of brand name drugs Atepro, Optivar and Astelin.

Azelastine comes as a nasal spray inhaler that is used to treat systemic allergy symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. The eye drop version is used to treat allergy symptoms of the eye like itchiness and watery eyes. The nasal spray is used 1-2 times daily while the eye drop is used 2 times daily.

Azelastine blocks histamine in the body and prevents it from causing allergy symptoms.

Common side effects of the nasal spray include sleepiness, headache, cough, sneezing, nose or throat irritation, changes in taste, upset stomach, nosebleed, dry mouth, dizziness and weight gain.

Common side effects of the Azelastine eye drop include headache, burning or stinging of the eyes and a bad taste in your mouth.

How much does Azelastine cost with Medicare?

Azelastine 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 Azelastine?

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

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

If you are using the Azelastine nasal spray, it Is best to point the nozzle away from the middle wall of the nose. Blow your nose before use and inhale the medication deeply with each spray.

If you are using the Azelastine eye drop, wash your hands before and after you use them. You should remove contact lenses before using the eye drop. You can put your contacts back in 10 minutes after you use the eyedrop.

Azelastine is typically well tolerated by people who take it. However, you should talk to your doctor if you have any changes in eyesight, eye pain or bad eye irritation while using the eye drop.

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.