Ventolin® Medicare Coverage

Ventolin is a medication that contains the active ingredient Albuterol. Ventolin is used to treat acute worsening episodes (or exacerbations) of asthma and COPD.

This medication is typically used only when needed during an asthma or COPD attack. Ventolin helps your muscles in your throat relax to reduce restriction and help you breathe better.

The major side effects of Ventolin include nervousness and excitation, headache, dizziness, upset stomach and shakiness. You may also experience throat irritation and runny nose.

Does Medicare cover Ventolin or Albuterol?

No. Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans do not typically cover Ventolin.¹

You may be able to find Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover other drugs that help treat asthma or COPD.

• 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.

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

Average costs for Ventolin with Medicare drug coverage¹

Because Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans do not typically cover Ventolin, you will likely be responsible for all costs for this drug if you have one of these types of Medicare coverage.

Additional information

This medication is a rescue inhaler should only be used for quick relief of asthma or COPD symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you are having to use your rescue inhaler very often, as you may need another medication for better control of your symptoms.

If you have high blood sugar or diabetes, you may need to watch your blood sugar closely, as Ventolin can increase your blood sugar levels.

Tell your doctor or go to a hospital immediately if your breathing becomes worse after using Ventolin.

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.