Final answer:
Medicare coverage does not include drugs for weight loss or gain, fertility, cosmetic purposes, or symptomatic relief of coughs and colds, among others. The 2003 Medicare Prescription Drug and Modernization Act provided some relief but left gaps in coverage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Certain prescription drugs are excluded from Medicare coverage, including drugs for weight loss or gain, fertility, cosmetic purposes, and symptomatic relief of cough and colds among others.
The Medicare Prescription Drug and Modernization Act of 2003 was a significant reform to aid the elderly and disabled with the cost of prescription drugs. While this Act led to savings through a discount card program, it was also noted that not all drugs would be covered. Specifically, Medicare generally does not cover medications such as those for weight loss or gain, fertility, for cosmetic purposes, or drugs for the symptomatic relief of cough and colds. Certain products like over-the-counter medications and prescription vitamins and minerals (except prenatal vitamins and fluoride preparations) are also generally excluded unless deemed medically necessary.
Barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and drugs for sexual or erectile dysfunction were traditionally excluded, but coverage for certain barbiturates and benzodiazepines has since been added. The political pressure and lobbying by groups such as the American Association for Retired People (AARP) significantly influenced the expansion of Medicare's drug coverage. Nonetheless, gaps in coverage persist, leading some to continue to advocate for more comprehensive benefits.