Bupropion (Wellbutrin) Medicare Coverage

Bupropion is a medication used to treat major depressive disorder and prevent seasonal depression, and it can help as an aid to smoking cessation treatment. The brand name version of Bupropion is called Wellbutrin.

Bupropion is available as an oral tablet that comes in immediate release and extended release forms. The immediate release tablet is typically taken twice daily, while extended release forms are usually taken once daily.

Bupropion increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to help improve depression.

Common side effects of Bupropion include dizziness, headache, upset stomach, nervousness, odd dreams, constipation, gas, dry mouth, insomnia, nose or throat irritation and a change in weight.

How much does Bupropion cost with Medicare?

Bupropion 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 Bupropion?

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

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

Seasonal depression is also called seasonal affective disorder and is characterized by depressive episodes related to a certain time period of the year when there is less sunshine.

Do not take Bupropion more often than you are told, as this can increase the risk of seizures. If you are taking this medication twice daily, make sure you know how far apart to take your doses. If you have trouble sleeping, take your dose as far away from bedtime as possible. If you take Bupropion once daily, take your dose in the morning.

If you are using Bupropion to stop smoking, let your doctor know if you have not been able to quit after 12 weeks of use.

Thoughts or actions related to suicide can be increased in young adults taking Bupropion. Watch for symptoms of worsening depression and call the doctor right away if this happens.

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.