Does Medicare Part D cover Symbicort?
Coverage, cost, and 2026 details for Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) under Medicare Part D.
Quick answer: Yes, Symbicort 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 Symbicort?
Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) is an inhaler used twice daily to control symptoms of asthma and COPD. It combines an inhaled corticosteroid (budesonide) with a long-acting beta-agonist (formoterol). An authorized generic version was approved by the FDA, often available at lower cost.
Is Symbicort covered by Medicare Part D?
Symbicort is covered by most Medicare Part D plans, typically on Tier 3 (preferred brand). The authorized generic budesonide/formoterol is increasingly preferred by plans and may be on a lower tier. Some plans require step therapy — meaning you may need to try a less expensive inhaler first.
Typical formulary tier
Symbicort 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 Symbicort cost with Medicare Part D?
Without insurance, Symbicort costs around $350 per month for brand at retail pharmacies. With Medicare Part D coverage, you typically pay $30 to $200 per month for Symbicort; less for the authorized generic.
Your actual cost depends on:
- Your plan's deductible — up to $615 in 2026
- The tier Symbicort 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 Symbicort 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 Symbicort 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 Symbicort 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 Symbicort causes a big upfront pharmacy bill. Learn about M3P →
4. Look into Patient Assistance Programs
AstraZeneca 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 Symbicort
Other medications used for asthma, COPD include:
- Authorized generic (budesonide/formoterol)
- Advair Diskus (fluticasone/salmeterol)
- Wixela (generic Advair)
- Breo Ellipta (fluticasone furoate/vilanterol)
- Dulera (mometasone/formoterol)
Always discuss any medication change with your prescribing doctor.
Key facts about Symbicort on Medicare
- Authorized generic budesonide/formoterol is available
- Often subject to step therapy on Part D plans
- Used for both asthma and COPD
Frequently asked questions about Symbicort on Medicare
Does Medicare cover Symbicort?
Yes, Symbicort 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 Symbicort cost on Medicare Part D?
Costs typically range from $30 to $200 per month for Symbicort; less for the authorized generic. Your actual cost depends on your plan's deductible, the tier Symbicort is on, and whether you've reached the $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap.
Is there a generic version of Symbicort?
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 Symbicort, (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