How Much Does Xeljanz Cost With Medicare?

Xeljanz is a prescription medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. If you have Medicare coverage, you may be wondering how much Xeljanz will cost you. The cost of Xeljanz with Medicare can vary depending on several factors, including your plan, the dosage prescribed, and where you purchase the medication. In this article, we will explore the different factors that can affect the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare and provide you with some tips to help you save money on this important medication.

Understanding Xeljanz Cost with Medicare

For those who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ulcerative colitis, Xeljanz can be a life-changing medication. However, the cost of this medication can be a significant financial burden, especially for those relying on Medicare for their healthcare coverage. In this article, we will explore the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare and provide some tips for managing the cost of this medication.

What is Xeljanz?

Xeljanz, also known as tofacitinib, is a medication that is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. It works by targeting specific enzymes in the body that contribute to inflammation, which can help reduce symptoms such as joint pain and swelling.

Xeljanz is available in two forms: Xeljanz and Xeljanz XR. Xeljanz is taken twice daily, while Xeljanz XR is taken once daily. The medication is available in 5mg and 10mg tablets.

How Much Does Xeljanz Cost with Medicare?

The cost of Xeljanz with Medicare can vary depending on the specific plan that you have. Medicare Part D plans cover prescription medications, including Xeljanz, but the cost of the medication will depend on the plan that you have chosen.

On average, the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare Part D is around $1,200 for a 30-day supply. However, this cost can vary significantly depending on your specific plan, your location, and whether you have reached your plan’s deductible or coverage gap.

Managing the Cost of Xeljanz with Medicare

If you are struggling to afford the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare, there are several options that you can explore.

Look for Financial Assistance Programs

Many pharmaceutical companies offer financial assistance programs for patients who are struggling to afford their medications. These programs can help cover the cost of Xeljanz or provide discounts to help make the medication more affordable.

Consider Switching to a Lower-Cost Medication

If the cost of Xeljanz is simply too high, you may want to talk to your doctor about alternative medications that may be more affordable. There are several other medications available for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis that may be more affordable than Xeljanz.

Explore Generic Alternatives

While there is currently no generic version of Xeljanz available, there may be generic alternatives available for other medications that you are taking. Switching to a generic medication can help reduce the overall cost of your healthcare.

Shop Around for the Best Price

The cost of Xeljanz can vary significantly depending on the pharmacy that you use. To get the best price for your medication, it’s important to shop around and compare prices at different pharmacies.

Consider a Medicare Advantage Plan

Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional coverage for prescription medications, including Xeljanz, which can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. If you are struggling to afford the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare, it may be worth exploring a Medicare Advantage plan to see if it is a good fit for your healthcare needs.

Xeljanz Benefits vs. Risks

While Xeljanz can be an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis, it is important to weigh the benefits against the risks before starting the medication.

Xeljanz Benefits

• Reduced joint pain and swelling
• Improved quality of life
• Reduced risk of joint damage

Xeljanz Risks

• Increased risk of infection
• Increased risk of cancer
• Increased risk of blood clots

Conclusion

While the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare can be high, there are several options available to help manage the cost of this medication. Whether you are looking for financial assistance programs, exploring generic alternatives, or shopping around for the best price, there are steps that you can take to make this medication more affordable. As with any medication, it is important to weigh the benefits against the risks before starting treatment with Xeljanz.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Xeljanz costs with Medicare:

1. What is Xeljanz?

Xeljanz is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis in adults. It is an immunosuppressant drug that reduces inflammation in the body.

Xeljanz is available in two forms: Xeljanz XR (extended-release) and Xeljanz (immediate-release). Both forms come in 5 mg tablets.

2. How much does Xeljanz cost with Medicare?

The cost of Xeljanz with Medicare depends on several factors, including the type of Medicare plan you have, your deductible, and the pharmacy you use. On average, Xeljanz can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 per month.

If you have Medicare Part D coverage, you may be able to get some assistance with the cost of Xeljanz. You can check with your plan to see what your out-of-pocket costs will be.

3. Is Xeljanz covered by Medicare?

Yes, Xeljanz is covered by Medicare, but the amount of coverage may vary depending on your plan. If you have Medicare Part D coverage, Xeljanz is usually covered under your prescription drug plan.

If you have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), Xeljanz may be covered under Medicare Part B as a medical benefit. However, you may still have to pay a portion of the cost, such as the Part B deductible and coinsurance.

4. Are there any ways to save money on Xeljanz with Medicare?

Yes, there are a few ways to save money on Xeljanz with Medicare. One way is to use a preferred pharmacy that offers lower prices on prescription drugs. Another way is to check if you qualify for any patient assistance programs that can help reduce the cost of Xeljanz.

You can also talk to your doctor about other treatment options that may be more affordable or have lower out-of-pocket costs.

5. What should I do if I can’t afford Xeljanz with Medicare?

If you can’t afford Xeljanz with Medicare, there are a few things you can do. One option is to talk to your doctor about other treatment options that may be more affordable or have lower out-of-pocket costs.

You can also check if you qualify for any patient assistance programs that can help reduce the cost of Xeljanz. Additionally, you can contact Medicare or a licensed insurance agent to explore different plan options that may offer better coverage for Xeljanz.

Medicare Costs | How much does Medicare cost in 2022?

In conclusion, the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare can vary depending on the specific plan and coverage. However, it is important to note that Xeljanz can be a life-changing medication for individuals suffering from certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. It is important to discuss the cost and coverage options with your healthcare provider and Medicare representative to ensure you are receiving the best possible care at an affordable price.

While the cost of Xeljanz with Medicare may seem daunting at first, there are resources available to help offset these expenses. For example, some pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs that can help cover the cost of medications like Xeljanz. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional coverage options for prescription drugs, including Xeljanz.

In the end, it is important to prioritize your health and well-being by seeking the medication and treatment options that work best for you. By discussing your options with your healthcare provider and exploring all available resources, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare and ensure you are receiving the care and support you need.