Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a common medical condition that affects people of all ages. In the past, many people who suffered from ADHD were misdiagnosed. Today, ADHD is recognized as a treatable condition, and one of the most common medications used in the treatment of ADHD is Adderall.
When Adderall was first brought to market, it was offered as single doses that needed to be taken either one time per day or as multiple doses that needed to be taken throughout the day. Adderall XR provides an extended release of medication throughout the day at lower doses. Adderall XR allows those who suffer from ADHD to take one dose per day, minimizing the potential for fluctuations in how the medication affects brain chemistry.
Does Medicaid Cover Adderall XR?
In most cases, Adderall XR is covered for those covered by Medicaid eligibility. This coverage is also typically offered under Medicare Part D, also known as the prescription drug benefit, as long as the medication is considered medically necessary to overall health.. It could be possible that Adderall XR would be a covered expense under Medicare Part A if the drug is provided as part of a stay in a skilled nursing facility or under Part B if the drug is administered in a clinical setting for out-patient treatment. Barring these two exceptions, however, Medicare Part D would be the primary coverage source when Adderall XR is prescribed by a physician and picked up at a retail pharmacy.
Therapy Requirements Prior to Medication
In order to be eligible for Medicaid coverage for Adderall XR, some states require that patients first seek behavioral modification therapy as a first-line treatment. Additionally, the topic of children and Adderall XR can be a sticking point due to concerns about the safety of taking such medications while the brain is developing and behavioral concerns may be more psychological than physiological.
When these cases arise, a doctor may be required to attest through paperwork that non-medicinal therapeutic methods have been attempted prior to the prescription of Adderall XR. Once again, this is only the case in select states and laws and regulations change each year, so you will need to speak with your physician and your Medicare or Medicaid plan manager for clarification in your unique situation.
Considerations When Taking Adderall XR
One thing that’s important to note about Adderall XR or any other type of amphetamine product is that the potential for addiction and abuse does exist. This means that even patients who take Adderall XR responsibly need to be aware of the correct dosing instructions and how to navigate situations where a dose has been missed. Taking unsafe doses of amphetamine-based medications can lead to additional health concerns involving the cardiovascular system. Patients also need to be keenly aware of side effects and seek medical intervention if they experience severe reactions, including confusion, suicidal thoughts and digestive issues.
The potential for abuse and addiction also means that people who are prescribed Adderall XR or any other type of amphetamine-based medication need to take extra precautions to ensure that their medications do not fall into the wrong hands. If you have amphetamine medications that have expired, you should dispose of these medications in a responsible manner according to your physician’s instructions. In many cases, retail pharmacies will provide free disposal packaging that is designed to neutralize or destroy potentially dangerous medications.
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