Drugs never covered by Medicare

There are many drugs that no Medicare plans will cover under the Part D benefit, based on national Medicare guidelines.

  • Drugs for anorexia, weight loss, or weight gain (i.e., Xenical®, Meridia, phentermine HCl, etc.)
  • Drugs that promote fertility (i.e., Clomid, Gonal-f, Ovidrel®, Follistim®, etc.)
  • Drugs for cosmetic purposes or hair growth (i.e., Propecia®, Renova®, Vaniqa®, etc.)
  • Drugs for the relief of cough and cold symptoms (i.e., Phenergan w/Codeine, Robitussin® AC, Tanafed, Tessalon® Perle, etc.)
  • Prescription vitamins and mineral products, except prenatal vitamins and fluoride preparations (i.e., Nephrocaps, Foltx, Cyanocobalamin, etc.).
  • Nonprescription drugs
  • Drugs for sexual dysfunction (i.e., Viagra®, Cialis®, Levitra®, Muse®, Caverject®)
  • Non-FDA-Approved products
  • Drug efficacy study implementation (DESI) drugs (drugs the FDA has determined to be safe but not effective)
  • Bulk chemicals in the following STCs: U6I, U6Q, U6U, U6W, and U6X
    Bulk chemicals do not meet the definition of a Part D-covered drug (FDA-approved, prescription medication with a compendial indication)
  • Devices (i.e., diaphragms)
  • Ingredient/adjuvant (i.e., sterile water for injection)
  • Line flush (i.e., normal saline IV flush, Heparin Sodium Lock Flush)
  • Medical supplies (i.e., Biafine, ethyl alcohol)
  • Drugs covered under Medicare Part A or Part B (i.e., Xeloda®, Temodar®, Advate)