Macrobid (Nitrofurantoin Mono/Macro) Medicare Coverage

Macrobid is an antibiotic medication used to treat and/or prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Macrobid prevents bacteria from being able to form properly, which helps treat and prevent infection. The generic form of Macrobid is called Nitrofurantoin Mono/Macro.

For active urinary tract infection treatment, Macrobid is usually taken 3 times daily for 5-7 days. If you take Macrobid to prevent UTIs, it can be taken either once daily or within 2 hours of sexual intercourse, depending on the cause of the recurrent UTIs.

Common side effects of Macrobid include headache, upset stomach, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dizziness and drowsiness.

Does Medicare cover Macrobid or Nitrofurantoin?

While some Medicare plans may not cover Macrobid, 98% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans cover Nitrofurantoin Mono/Macro.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 Nitrofurantoin Mono/Macro.

Or call 1-800-557-6059 1-800-557-6059 TTY Users: 711 24/7 to speak with a licensed insurance agent.

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.

Average costs for Nitrofurantoin with Medicare drug coverage¹

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

Additional information

Take your Macrobid dose(s) with food. It is also important to take this medication as your doctor prescribes it, even if you feel better shortly after starting it.

Diarrhea is not an alarming side effect of Macrobid but can sometimes indicate a more serious diarrhea condition called C Diff. Let your doctor know if you have diarrhea that does not resolve, abdominal pain, cramps or bloody stools.

Other problems that can happen with Macrobid include nerve problems and – rarely – liver problems. Let your doctor know if you experience any nerve pain or stomach side effects that do not seem normal.

If you take Macrobid for longer than 6 months, you may be at a higher risk of lung problems. Lung problems can occur without any warning signs. Call your doctor right away if you experience fever, chills, chest pain, an abnormal cough or trouble breathing.

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.