Clopidogrel (Plavix) Medicare Coverage

Clopidogrel is a medication typically used to prevent stroke or heart attacks in patients who have acute coronary syndrome. It is also used to prevent a second stroke or heart attack in people who have already had one.

The brand name equivalent of Clopidogrel is called Plavix. It is typically taken once daily.

Clopidogrel reduces how much platelets stick together, which can help keep blood vessels clear for normal blood flow. This drug is typically well tolerated with minimal side effects.

How much does Clopidogrel cost with Medicare?

Clopidogrel 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 Clopidogrel?

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

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

Clopidogrel should be taken daily with or without food. Keep taking Clopidogrel to prevent heart attack and stroke for as long as your doctor instructs you to, even if you don’t immediately feel any effects of taking the drug.

If you fall or hurt yourself, or if you hit your head, call your doctor right away. Talk with your doctor even if you feel fine, as you may bleed more easily. Be careful to avoid injury.

Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor while taking Clopidogrel.

A severe blood problem called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) has occurred in some cases with this drug. Tell your doctor right away if you experience confusion, fatigue, trouble speaking, change in balance or a change in eyesight.

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.