Finasteride Medicare Coverage

Finasteride

Chemical name: Finasteride

Brand name: Propecia, Proscar

Typical dosage: 1mg

Typical type: Tablet1

Finasteride is used to treat male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Finasteride is available as a brand name drug or as a generic and comes as an oral tablet.

Finasteride is a medication typically used to treat male pattern hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The brand name equivalents of Finasteride include Propecia and Proscar.

Finasteride is typically taken once daily. Finasteride increases testosterone levels to help with hair loss and BPH symptoms.

Finasteride is typically well tolerated, but some side effects include dizziness, fatigue and a decreased interest in sex.

Does Medicare cover Finasteride or Propecia?

No. Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans do not typically cover Finasteride.1

You may be able to find Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover other drugs that help treat male pattern baldness or BPH.

  • 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.

Find Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage

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Or call TTY Users: 711 24/7 to speak with a licensed insurance agent.

Average costs for Finasteride with Medicare drug coverage1

Because Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans do not typically cover Finasteride, you will likely be responsible for all costs for this drug if you have one of these types of Medicare coverage.

Additional information

Finasteride may take up to 3 months to see the full effect.

Finasteride is typically well tolerated, but you may notice symptoms such as a lump in the breast, breast pain, soreness, decreased mood or enlarged breasts (gynecomastia). If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor.

Finasteride has been shown to increase the risk of suicidal behavior in some people who take it. Talk to your doctor if you have thoughts of suicide or changes in mood or behavior.

 

 

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.