Donepezil (Aricept) Medicare Coverage

Donepezil is a medication typically used to treat mild, moderate and severe dementia related to Alzheimer’s disease. The brand name equivalent of Donepezil is called Aricept.

Donepezil is typically taken once daily. Donepezil increases a chemical in the brain to help improve symptoms of dementia.

Common side effects of Donepezil include dizziness, upset stomach, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, weight loss, muscle cramps and headache.

How much does Donepezil cost with Medicare?

Donepezil 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 Donepezil?

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

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

It is best to take Donepezil at bedtime. You can take it with or without food. It is important to continuously keep taking Donepezil according to your doctor’s orders, even if you feel well.

Donepezil can help improve signs and symptoms of dementia but is not a cure for Alzheimer’s.

A condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome can occur while taking Donepezil. If you experience symptoms of high temperature, abnormal pulse or blood pressure, abnormal heart beat, muscle stiffness or mental status changes, call your doctor.

This medication can lead to muscle problems. Talk to your doctor if you experience any muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, fever or see dark urine.

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.