Medicare Coverage for Viagra, Cialis and Levitra
Did you know between 15-25% of men 65 and over experience Erectile Dysfunction (ED)? Meaning, over 15-30 million men encounter symptoms of this issue. Proving that this is one of the more common topics of concern for Medicare beneficiaries.
ED, or Erectile Dysfunction, begins when an underlying issue limits the blood flow to the penis. It’s important to know this problem is usually caused by stress, injury, or disease. However, causes for erectile dysfunction vary. Among the leading causes are high blood pressure, diabetes, and even excessive consumption of alcohol or drug use.
The cause of your erectile dysfunction will determine the type of treatment you seek. Finding and treating the causes of this issue is the best option for your overall health. There are currently three main types of treatment for ED.
Medicare Coverage for Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra
Erectile dysfunction can be treated using a medication designed to relieve the symptoms of ED. The three drugs most highly requested amongst men are Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. Millions of men have benefited from the effects of these medications.
All of these options will increase the blood flow to the penis, producing erections. However, each form of medication is different, and has their own advantages.
What is Viagra?
Viagra is essentially the most common form of ED treatment, as it has the most recognition nationally. It has been broadcast on television, radio, and advertised thoroughly. Making it the most well-known treatment for erectile dysfunction in the media.
Viagra comes in tablet form, and usually works within an hour of consumption. The tablet for consumption is usually purchased as a water soluble tablet. Viagra usually works best when taken on an empty stomach. The effects of Viagra could last anywhere from two to six hours.
Keep in mind, Viagra should not be taken if you are currently taking medication for chest pain or heart issues. Taking Viagra with a nitrate prescription drug can cause serious issues with your blood pressure if combined.
Is Viagra Covered by Medicare?
If you are currently enrolled in only the Original Medicare (Part A and B), Viagra is not covered. Medicare Part B will cover any erectile dysfunction medical equipment, but not the prescription itself. This leaves the patient with a 20% cost to cover, unless enrolled in a Medigap plan covering those costs.
Medicare Part D, the prescription drug coverage plan, also does not cover Viagra at this time. This also means that generic versions of Viagra are not covered. Although, coverage plans and options are always changing. It is important to look through your options for Viagra coverage during your annual election period.
What is Cialis?
Cialis is a brand name for the drug Tadalafil, and is used to reduce pulmonary arterial hypertension. Once hypertension is treated, patients will experience better blood flow to the penis.
Like Viagra, Cialis is taken in tablet form. However, Cialis can be taken before or after a meal, as it is not affected by an empty or full stomach. Cialis is not a medication that should be taken more frequently than one dose every 24 hours.
Patients who are looking to use Cialis often expect it to cause an erection. The fact is, this drug does not work without sexual arousal. The male should first be aroused before experiencing an erection.
Does Medicare Cover Cialis?
Unfortunately, like Viagra, Medicare does not cover Cialis prescriptions. Original Medicare does not cover prescription drugs. Therefore, you may need to purchase a Part D Prescription Drug Plan to cover Cialis.
For Cialis, Medicare Part D may cover the cost of Cialis, given the private insurers include that. It is common for a Part D plan to not cover Cialis, as it is not considered medically necessary.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage, your Cialis will likely be covered. Finding a plan that will supply this may be tough. You may end up paying a higher percentage of the cost.
What is Levitra?
Levitra is also known as Vardenafil. It is typically prescribed to patients whose arteries carrying blood to the penis are too narrow. Levitra will increase the blood flow to the penis mimicking Cialis and Viagra.
This tablet is taken anywhere from 25 to 60 minutes before sexual intercourse. The effects of Levitra can last up to 5 hours. It cannot be taken more than once in a 24 hour time frame. The Levitra tablet is one is usually left to dissolve on the tongue, and not taken like a pill.
It can be taken without or without food, like Cialis. However, consuming alcohol is not suggested, as it could alter the chances of getting an erection. It is also important to remember, this drug will not work unless the male is first sexually aroused.
Does Medicare Pay for Levitra?
Does Medicare cover Levitra? At this time, Medicare does not cover this drug, or any other drugs meant for sexual dysfunction.
Medicare will cover drugs like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra if they are prescribed as Medically necessary from your doctor. Usually, to be considered “medically necessary”, doctors will put you on this medication to treat other health issues, involving blood flow.
If you would like to take the Levitra drug, or similar drugs, you will need to treat a majority of the cost as an out-of-pocket expense.
Medicare Plan Finder Tool
The Part D plan finder tool allows you to compare Part D Prescription Drug Plans side by side and see what medications they cover.
