Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) Medicare Coverage

Hydrochlorothiazide
Chemical name: Hydrochlorothiazide

Brand name: Hydrodiuril, Microzide, Oretic, Esidrix

Typical dosage: 25mg

Typical type: Tablet1

Hydrochlorothiazide is a medication typically used to treat fluid retention and high blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is available as a generic drug or a brand name version and comes as an oral tablet or capsule.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a medication used to treat fluid retention for patients with cirrhosis or liver, heart or kidney disease, and it is also used to treat high blood pressure. The brand name versions of Hydrochlorothiazide include Hydrodiuril, Microzide, Oretic and Esidrix.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication that helps your body get rid of sodium and water to help reduce water retention and lower blood pressure.

The most common side effects that you may experience with Hydrochlorothiazide include upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation, feeling tired or weak, dizziness and headache.

Does Medicare cover Hydrochlorothiazide or Microzide?

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

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Average costs for Hydrochlorothiazide with Medicare drug coverage1

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

Deductible stage Typical copay stage
Your deductible is the amount of money you must spend on covered drugs before your Medicare drug coverage starts paying its share of costs.

In the deductible stage, you’re responsible for the full cost of your prescription drugs.

Some Medicare prescription drug plans have a $0 deductible. Medicare drug plans cannot have a deductible more than $415 in 2019.		 After you meet your Part D deductible, you enter the initial coverage period.

During this phase (the typical copay stage), you pay a copayment (flat fee) or coinsurance (percentage) for your covered medications.
Free – $3 Free – $3

Additional information

This medication should be used with caution if you are 65 years of age or older. Diuretics can cause extremely low sodium in older adults. Speak with your doctor about acceptable alternatives if necessary.

Diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide can cause electrolyte imbalances. Signs of fluid and electrolyte problems include mood changes, confusion, muscle pain, abnormal heartbeat, or other abnormal symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.

Hydrochlorothiazide can also cause kidney problems. Signs of kidney problems include inability to pass urine, blood in the urine or substantial weight gain. If you have a history of gout, this medication can cause a recurrence or make it worse.

 

 

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.