Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) Medicare Coverage

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.

How much does Hydrochlorothiazide cost with Medicare?

Hydrochlorothiazide 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 Hydrochlorothiazide?

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

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

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.