Medicare Part D Covers Many Drugs but Few Brand Names

Medicare Part D formularies cover nearly all drug classes for treatment of hypertension, hyperlidemia, and depression, with generics accounting for most of the agent.

The one drug category that is different is the angiotensin II receptor blockers or ARB's (such as Losartan).

The problem is that sometimes the brand name drugs, which are probably newer on the market may cause less side effects, and for some patients be more effective.

Amongst generics there are also differences. At least one drug in each category is covered; however, that does not guarantee that the other generic drugs in the same category may be covered.

What this news amount to for our elderly is out of pocket costs which may exceed their limited budgets.