Does Medicare Cover Bentyl Prescriptions?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal condition that causes uncomfortable abdominal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating and gas. The specific cause of IBS is not completely understood, but medical professionals believe that it could be linked to various factors such as stress, food intolerance, bacterial infections resulting in bacterial overgrowth, gut flora imbalances and nervous system disorders. IBS symptoms are often managed with dietary changes and medications, such as Bentyl (dicyclomine), that help reduce muscle spasms in the intestines. 

Does Medicare Cover Bentyl?

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage plans do not currently cover dicyclomine under the brand name Bentyl, but approximately 99% of Medicare prescription drug plans cover generic dicyclomine. Specific costs and coverage options may vary depending on plan availability and whether a recipient has met the Medicare deductible.

Costs for generic dicyclomine during the Medicare deductible phase range from $0 to $11.50. After the required Medicare deductible costs are met and beneficiaries move into the copay or coinsurance phase, the copay price for generic dicyclomine is approximately $0 to $1. 

How Does Dicyclomine Work?

Dicyclomine is an antispasmodic medication that relaxes the intestinal and stomach muscles to slow down the gut's natural movements and prevent cramping. For individuals with IBS, this may help relieve pain from muscle cramps and prevent diarrhea. While specific dosage instructions can vary, dicyclomine is typically taken up to four times daily.

Dicyclomine Side Effects

Side effects such as drowsiness and constipation are common when taking dicyclomine, so physicians sometimes recommend starting with smaller doses and gradually increasing doses as the body adjusts to the medication. 

Is Dicyclomine Considered a High-Risk Medication for Older Adults? 

Dicyclomine is considered a higher-risk medication for adults aged 65 or older due to side effects such as drowsiness and constipation. While these side effects are generally considered normal, the medicine can exacerbate constipation in older adults and worsen cognitive behavior and behavioral problems in older individuals with dementia. 

Does Dicyclomine Interact With Other Medications?

Dicyclomine may interact with antihistamines and anti-arrhythmic medications. Antacids are known to lower the effectiveness of dicyclomine, so it's important for individuals who take both medications to space out doses as directed by a physician. Dicyclomine may also affect how the body absorbs antifungal and heart failure medications.