Does Medicare Cover Giazo?

Figuring out how to afford an expensive medication such as Giazo can be stressful, so it's worth exploring whether your health insurance can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Below, you can find out whether Medicare covers Giazo.

What Is Giazo?

Giazo (balsalazide disodium) is a costly drug used to relieve the symptoms of ulcerative colitis in adult males. Doctors don't typically prescribe this medication to female patients because research doesn't indicate that it is effective for this group.

Most people who take Giazo take three tablets twice a day. However, you should always defer to your healthcare provider's guidance.

Giazo Side Effects

Side effects of Giazo may include:

• Anemia
• Diarrhea
• Urinary tract infections
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Fatigue

Does Medicare Cover Giazo?

Original Medicare and Medicare Part D plans are highly unlikely to cover Giazo, although it's worth checking with your insurer. You can determine what drugs are eligible for coverage by consulting the policy's formulary, which is the list of covered medications. 

If your plan doesn't cover Giazo, your doctor may recommend an alternative treatment covered by insurance. For example, almost all Medicare Part D plans cover generic balsalazide tablets to treat ulcerative colitis and stomach pain. 

How Much Does Giazo Cost With Medicare?

You'll usually pay for Giazo yourself, even if you have Part D prescription drug coverage. Giazo is an expensive medication, costing around $1,000 on average for 180 tablets. 

Medicare Coverage Restrictions for Giazo

In the unlikely event that your Medicare Part D provider agrees to cover Giazo, it may impose coverage restrictions. For example, your insurer may ask your healthcare provider to get in touch to verify that your medication is medically necessary in a process known as prior authorization. Insurance companies may also restrict how much medication you can receive at a time.