Does Medicare Part D cover NovoLog?
Coverage, cost, and 2026 details for NovoLog (insulin aspart) under Medicare Part D.
Quick answer: Yes, NovoLog is generally covered by Medicare Part D plans, typically on Tier 3 (preferred brand). 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 NovoLog?
NovoLog (insulin aspart) is a rapid-acting insulin taken at mealtimes to control blood sugar spikes. Fiasp is a faster-acting version of NovoLog. NovoLog is one of the Medicare-negotiated drugs under the Inflation Reduction Act. It's also subject to Medicare's $35-per-month insulin cap.
Is NovoLog covered by Medicare Part D?
NovoLog and Fiasp are covered by virtually all Medicare Part D plans. Two important features apply: (1) all insulins are capped at $35/month under the Inflation Reduction Act, and (2) NovoLog has a Medicare-negotiated price reducing the Medicare list price by 76% starting January 2026. The $35 cap is what most beneficiaries actually pay.
Typical formulary tier
NovoLog is most often listed on Tier 3 (preferred brand) of Part D formularies. The exact tier — and the copay — depends on the specific plan you're enrolled in.
How much does NovoLog cost with Medicare Part D?
Without insurance, NovoLog costs around $300 per month per pen at retail pharmacies. With Medicare Part D coverage, you typically pay $35 per month under the IRA insulin cap.
Your actual cost depends on:
- Your plan's deductible — up to $615 in 2026
- The tier NovoLog 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
2026 Medicare-negotiated price
NovoLog is one of the 10 drugs whose prices were negotiated by Medicare under the Inflation Reduction Act. Starting January 1, 2026, the negotiated price reduces the Medicare list price by 76%.
This negotiated price is what Medicare pays to the manufacturer. Your specific copay depends on your plan's tier structure and where you are in the Part D coverage phases. The negotiation is expected to flow through to lower costs for many enrollees, especially as plans adjust their formularies and tiers for 2026.
See all 10 negotiated drugs and 2026 prices →
How to lower your NovoLog 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 NovoLog 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 NovoLog 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 NovoLog causes a big upfront pharmacy bill. Learn about M3P →
4. Look into Patient Assistance Programs
Novo Nordisk 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 NovoLog
Other medications used for type 1 and type 2 diabetes include:
- Humalog (insulin lispro)
- Apidra (insulin glulisine)
- Fiasp (faster aspart)
- Insulin aspart (authorized generic)
Always discuss any medication change with your prescribing doctor.
Key facts about NovoLog on Medicare
- Capped at $35/month under the Inflation Reduction Act
- Also one of the Medicare-negotiated drugs (76% reduction)
- Authorized generic (insulin aspart) is also available
Frequently asked questions about NovoLog on Medicare
Does Medicare cover NovoLog?
Yes, NovoLog is generally covered by Medicare Part D plans, most often on Tier 3 (preferred brand). Coverage and costs vary between plans, so compare plans available in your area. Some plans require prior authorization.
How much does NovoLog cost on Medicare Part D?
Costs typically range from $35 per month under the IRA insulin cap. Your actual cost depends on your plan's deductible, the tier NovoLog is on, and whether you've reached the $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap.
Is there a generic version of NovoLog?
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 NovoLog, (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.
Did Medicare negotiate the price of NovoLog?
Yes. NovoLog is one of the 10 drugs whose prices were negotiated by Medicare under the Inflation Reduction Act. Starting January 1, 2026, the negotiated price reduces the Medicare list price by 76%.
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