Ketoconazole (Nizoral/Extina) Medicare Coverage

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections. The brand name equivalents of Ketoconazole include Extina and Nizoral.

Depending on the type of fungal infection you have, Ketoconazole can be taken by mouth or can be applied to the skin. Ketoconazole kills fungal cells and prevents new ones from forming, which allows your infection to heal.

Common side effects of the topical formulation include irritation where you use the drug. Common side effects of the oral tablet include upset stomach, diarrhea and headache.

How much does Ketoconazole cost with Medicare?

Ketoconazole 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 Ketoconazole?

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

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

Take Ketoconazole as directed by your doctor, even if you feel better. Your infection may improve while using Ketoconazole before you finish the entire course.

When you use the topical form of Ketoconazole, wash your hands before and after use unless you are using the drug on your hands. Put a thin layer on your skin and rub it in gently. Do not use any bandages or other coverings unless your doctor tells you to.

If you are taking the oral tablet form of Ketoconazole, do not take antacids within 1 hour before or 2 hours after you take this medication.

The oral form of Ketoconazole can have very serious side effects and should only be used if other options are not available or appropriate.

Oral ketoconazole can lead to liver problems. Signs of liver problems include dark urine, fatigue, upset stomach, vomiting or yellow skin or eyes.

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.