Gabapentin (Neurontin) Medicare Coverage

Gabapentin is a medication indicated to treat nerve pain and partial seizures. Gabapentin can be taken 1-3 times daily, depending on the extent of the condition you are treating.

Gabapentin binds to parts of the brain in order to reduce the perception of pain related to nerves, and it increases the threshold for seizures.

Common side effects of Gabapentin include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth and feeling weak.

How much does Gabapentin cost with Medicare?

Gabapentin 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 Gabapentin?

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

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

Even if you start to feel better after taking Gabapentin, do not stop taking Gabapentin suddenly without talking to your doctor, as it may cause you to have side effects.

Gabapentin can be taken with or without food. Take it with food if it causes an upset stomach to help avoid that side effect.

Gabapentin can cause you to become tired or dizzy. This can impair your ability to do daily tasks. Be cautious about things like driving when you first begin taking Gabapentin.

Use with caution if you have kidney problems or if you have a history of substance abuse including: alcohol, benzodiazepines, cannabis, cocaine or opioids. Tolerance and dependence on Gabapentin can develop.

Gabapentin may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior as early as 1 week after starting the medication. Talk to your doctor if you have signs of depression, nervousness, restlessness, panic attacks or negative changes in mood or actions.

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.