Does Medicare Part D cover Singulair?
Coverage, cost, and 2026 details for Singulair (montelukast) under Medicare Part D.
Quick answer: Yes, Singulair is generally covered by Medicare Part D plans, typically on Tier 1 (preferred generic). 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 Singulair?
Singulair (montelukast) is a once-daily oral tablet used to control asthma and seasonal allergies. Generic montelukast is widely available and inexpensive. The FDA added a boxed warning in 2020 about potential mental health side effects, so this medication should be used carefully and discussed with your doctor.
Is Singulair covered by Medicare Part D?
Generic montelukast is covered by every Medicare Part D plan on Tier 1 (preferred generic). It's one of the cheapest asthma medications available, typically $0–$10 per month.
Typical formulary tier
Singulair is most often listed on Tier 1 (preferred generic) of Part D formularies. The exact tier — and the copay — depends on the specific plan you're enrolled in.
How much does Singulair cost with Medicare Part D?
Without insurance, Singulair costs $10 to $20 per month for generic at retail pharmacies. With Medicare Part D coverage, you typically pay Typically $0 to $10 per month with Medicare Part D.
Your actual cost depends on:
- Your plan's deductible — up to $615 in 2026
- The tier Singulair 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 Singulair 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 Singulair 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 Singulair 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 Singulair causes a big upfront pharmacy bill. Learn about M3P →
4. Look into Patient Assistance Programs
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 Singulair
Other medications used for asthma, allergic rhinitis include:
- Inhaled corticosteroids like Flovent or Pulmicort
- Combination inhalers like Symbicort or Advair
- Other allergy medications like Claritin or Zyrtec (over-the-counter)
Always discuss any medication change with your prescribing doctor.
Key facts about Singulair on Medicare
- Generic montelukast is widely available and inexpensive
- Almost always Tier 1 (preferred generic)
- FDA boxed warning regarding mental health side effects (2020)
Frequently asked questions about Singulair on Medicare
Does Medicare cover Singulair?
Yes, Singulair is generally covered by Medicare Part D plans, most often on Tier 1 (preferred generic). Coverage and costs vary between plans, so compare plans available in your area. Some plans require prior authorization.
How much does Singulair cost on Medicare Part D?
Costs typically range from Typically $0 to $10 per month with Medicare Part D. Your actual cost depends on your plan's deductible, the tier Singulair is on, and whether you've reached the $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap.
Is there a generic version of Singulair?
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 Singulair, (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