Does Medicare Part D cover Lyrica?
Coverage, cost, and 2026 details for Lyrica (pregabalin) under Medicare Part D.
Quick answer: Yes, Lyrica is generally covered by Medicare Part D plans, typically on Tier 2 (preferred generic) for pregabalin. Coverage details, copays, and restrictions vary by plan, so compare plans available in your area to find the best coverage for your medications.
What is Lyrica?
Lyrica (pregabalin) is used to treat nerve pain (including diabetic peripheral neuropathy and post-shingles pain), fibromyalgia, and certain seizure types. Pregabalin became available as a generic in 2019 and is far less expensive than brand-name Lyrica.
Is Lyrica covered by Medicare Part D?
Generic pregabalin is covered by most Medicare Part D plans on Tier 2 (preferred generic). Brand-name Lyrica is rarely used since the generic is identical and much cheaper. Some plans require prior authorization for higher doses.
Typical formulary tier
Lyrica is most often listed on Tier 2 (preferred generic) for pregabalin of Part D formularies. The exact tier — and the copay — depends on the specific plan you're enrolled in.
How much does Lyrica cost with Medicare Part D?
Without insurance, Lyrica costs $30 to $80 per month for generic at retail pharmacies. With Medicare Part D coverage, you typically pay Typically $5 to $30 per month for generic pregabalin.
Your actual cost depends on:
- Your plan's deductible — up to $615 in 2026
- The tier Lyrica is on in your plan's formulary
- Whether you've reached the $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap
- Whether you qualify for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
- Whether you've enrolled in the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P), which spreads costs across the year
How to lower your Lyrica costs
1. Compare Part D plans for your specific drugs
The same drug can cost dramatically different amounts on different plans. During the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), use the Medicare.gov Plan Finder to compare what Lyrica would cost across every plan available in your ZIP code.
2. Check if you qualify for Extra Help
If your income is below approximately $23,475 (single) or $31,725 (married couple) in 2026, you likely qualify for Extra Help, which dramatically reduces what you pay for Lyrica and all your medications. Learn about Extra Help →
3. Use the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P)
M3P doesn't lower your total cost, but it spreads your annual out-of-pocket costs into monthly installments — which can help if Lyrica causes a big upfront pharmacy bill. Learn about M3P →
4. Look into Patient Assistance Programs
Pfizer (brand) / various (generic) may offer a Patient Assistance Program for people with limited income who don't qualify for Extra Help. These programs can provide free or deeply discounted medication directly from the manufacturer. Learn more about manufacturer programs →
5. Ask about alternatives
Talk to your doctor about whether a different medication — including a generic version or a similar drug in the same class — would work for you.
Alternatives to Lyrica
Other medications used for neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, partial-onset seizures include:
- Gabapentin (cheaper Tier 1 generic alternative)
- Cymbalta / duloxetine (generic for fibromyalgia)
- Topical lidocaine for localized pain
Always discuss any medication change with your prescribing doctor.
Key facts about Lyrica on Medicare
- Generic pregabalin is much cheaper than brand Lyrica
- Typically Tier 2 (preferred generic) on Part D
- Gabapentin is a similar, even cheaper alternative for some uses
Frequently asked questions about Lyrica on Medicare
Does Medicare cover Lyrica?
Yes, Lyrica is generally covered by Medicare Part D plans, most often on Tier 2 (preferred generic) for pregabalin. Coverage and costs vary between plans, so compare plans available in your area. Some plans require prior authorization.
How much does Lyrica cost on Medicare Part D?
Costs typically range from Typically $5 to $30 per month for generic pregabalin. Your actual cost depends on your plan's deductible, the tier Lyrica is on, and whether you've reached the $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap.
Is there a generic version of Lyrica?
Yes — generic versions are available and significantly cheaper. Most Part D plans cover the generic on a lower tier with lower copays.
What if my Part D plan doesn't cover this drug?
You have several options: (1) Switch to a different Part D plan during Annual Enrollment that covers Lyrica, (2) Request a formulary exception from your current plan with your prescriber's support, (3) Ask your doctor about a covered alternative medication, or (4) Look into the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program if you have limited income.
Compare your Part D options
Coverage and costs for this drug vary significantly between plans. Compare your options:
You can also visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE