Ethambutol (Myambutol) Medicare Coverage

Ethambutol is a medication used to treat the pulmonary infection tuberculosis. Ethambutol is typically taken once daily for up to 4 months. The brand name equivalent of Ethambutol is called Myambutol.

Ethambutol works by stopping tuberculosis bacteria from forming in the body. Common side effects of ethambutol include upset stomach, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, headache, stomach pain and fatigue.

Does Medicare cover Ethambutol or Myambutol?

Yes! 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans cover Ethambutol.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). Most Medicare Advantage beneficiaries (88 percent) are enrolled in MA-PDs.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 Ethambutol.

Or call 1-800-557-6059 1-800-557-6059 TTY Users: 711 24/7 to speak with a licensed insurance agent.

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.

Average costs for Ethambutol with Medicare drug coverage¹

Your copay and deductible costs for any prescription drug can vary depending on what coverage stage you’re in.

Additional information

Take Ethambutol at the same time of day. Take this medication at the same time every day. If you stop taking Ethambutol before your doctor tells you to, the tuberculosis infection may not heal or can get worse.

Avoid taking any medications with aluminum within 4 hours of taking Ethambutol.

Ethambutol can cause changes in eyesight. Let your doctor know if you experience any changes in eyesight. This usually goes away when Ethambutol is stopped, however loss of eyesight has happened.

Also tell your doctor if you experience any symptoms of liver problems, like stomach pain or yellowing of the eyes and skin.

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.