Chlorhexidine (Periogard/Peridex) Medicare Coverage

Chlorhexidine is a medication used to treat or prevent infections of the mouth including gingivitis and periodontitis. It can also be used prior to surgery to prevent infections from ventilator tubing. The brand name equivalents of Chlorhexidine include Periogard and Peridex.

Chlorhexidine is typically used twice daily. Chlorhexidine helps kill bacteria and prevent new bacteria from forming.

Chlorhexidine is typically well tolerated, but side effects may include mouth irritation or a bad taste in your mouth.

How much does Chlorhexidine cost with Medicare?

Chlorhexidine 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 Chlorhexidine?

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

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

For proper use of Chlorhexidine, first brush and floss your teeth.

Rinse your mouth with 1 tablespoon of Chlorhexidine and swish it in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit the liquid out. Do not swallow this drug. Rinse twice a day unless your doctor tells you otherwise, in the morning and in the evening.

Wait 30 minutes before eating, drinking, using mouthwash or brushing your teeth after using Chlorhexidine.

Tell your doctor if you experience any numbness or tingling in your mouth, extreme gum pain or gum swelling.  

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.