Clonidine (Catapres/Catapres-Tts/Kapvay) Medicare Coverage

Clonidine is a medication used to treat hypertension and, in some cases, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The brand name equivalents of Clonidine include Kapvay, Catapres and Catapres-Tts.

The Clonidine tablet is typically taken 1-2 times daily and the patch is applied once every week. Clonidine works by reducing heart rate and relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure.

Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, weakness, headache, upset stomach and fatigue.

How much does Clonidine cost with Medicare?

Clonidine 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 Clonidine?

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

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Clonidine 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 2024 Medicare Advantage plans include 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 Clonidine. 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

The immediate release tablet and transdermal patch are typically used to help treat hypertension, while the extended release tablet is used for treatment of ADHD.

You won’t be able to feel the effect of Clonidine reducing your blood pressure. It is important to take Clonidine as your doctor has described in order to get the full benefit.

Clonidine may make you dizzy if your blood pressure becomes too low. Talk to your doctor if you experience any episodes of dizziness or fainting.

If you are using the skin patch, wash your hands before and after use. Put the patch on clean dry skin on the chest or upper arm. Move the site of administration with each new patch.

If the patch comes loose, you can use the patch cover that comes with your prescription. The patch cover does not contain any medication, so do not use it alone. Take off your old patch before putting on a new one.

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.