Mucomyst (Acetylcysteine) Medicare Coverage

Mucomyst is a medication that contains the active ingredient acetylcysteine. Mucomyst is used to help loosen and clear mucous in the nasal passages, sinuses and lungs.

Mucomyst is an inhaled medication. It works by dissolving the bonds in mucous that make it thick, which helps it become thin and drain more easily.

Common side effects include upset stomach, vomitting, runny nose, fatigue, mouth irritation, clammy skin and fever.

How much does Mucomyst cost with Medicare?

If Medicare Part B covers Mucomyst treatments for you because you meet the qualifying conditions, you’ll typically pay 0% to 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the Mucomyst prescription price, after you meet your Part B deductible.

In 2024, the Medicare Part B deductible is $240 per year. Once you pay this amount, you’ll pay the remaining copay costs Medicare Part B doesn’t cover.

Does Medicare cover Mucomyst?

Medicare Part B covers injectable and infused drugs administered by a medical provider for qualified beneficiaries.

You don’t need a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to get Mucomyst coverage.¹

If you have either type of private drug plan, you’re enrolled in Medicare Part B, and you qualify for Medicare coverage of Mucomyst, your Part B benefits will cover Mucomyst.

Some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans cover other prescription drugs that aren’t administered in a doctor’s office or by a medical professional.

• Part D plans or Medicare Advantage plans that cover drugs 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 2024 Medicare Advantage plans include 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 prescription drugs. 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

Mucomyst is an inhaled liquid. It should only be used by breathing in through the mouth.

If you use a mask to help you inhale Mucomyst, your face may feel sticky after your dose. Wash your face with water.

Try to cough up your loosened mucus after using Mucomyst. Store Mucomyst in the refrigerator.

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.