Escitalopram (Lexapro) Medicare Coverage

Escitalopram is a medication typically used to treat depression. The brand name equivalent of Escitalopram is called Lexapro.

Escitalopram is taken once daily. This medication is a form of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases the amount of serotonin available in your brain, which decreases depression symptoms.

The major side effects of Escitalopram include upset stomach, fatigue, dry mouth, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, trouble sleeping, shakiness and signs of a common cold.

How much does Escitalopram cost with Medicare?

Escitalopram 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 Escitalopram?

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

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

Do not stop taking Escitalopram, even if you begin to feel better. Suddenly stopping Escitalopram can result in withdrawal and side effects.

Avoid taking alcohol with this medication. You can take Escitalopram with or without food. If you are 65 or older, you are more prone to experiencing side effects while taking this medication.

Escitalopram and other medications in the same class can raise the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions in young adults taking this medication. The risk can be higher in people who have had these thoughts or actions in the past.

Call your doctor right away if you experience extreme changes in mood or suicidal thoughts.

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.