Qulipta is a brand-name prescription medication containing the active ingredient atogepant. Medicare Part D drug plans may cover either version if a doctor or healthcare professional prescribes it.

Private insurance companies administer Part D prescription drug plans on Medicare’s behalf, so drug costs and availability can vary by plan type and provider.

If you experience regular migraine, a doctor or healthcare professional may prescribe Qulipta (atogepant) to prevent episodes, and when medically necessary, Medicare may cover some or all of the costs.

Part D drug plans have three coverage stages, including the:

  • deductible stage
  • initial coverage stage
  • catastrophic coverage stage

The deductible stage

Not all Part D prescription drug plans have a deductible, but if yours does, you can join at this stage.

Once you pay the plan’s deductible in full, the plan can pay its share of eligible costs.

Initial coverage stage

During this stage, you must pay a 25% coinsurance toward the cost of Qulipta (atogepant).

In 2025, you must continue paying the 25% coinsurance until you pay $2,000. In 2026, this may increase to $2,100.

Catastrophic coverage stage

You may pay no further costs toward your prescription medications during this stage for the remaining calendar year.

You may receive an explanation of benefits (EOB) the month after your pharmacy bills your plan provider. The EOB may detail the:

  • filled prescriptions
  • amount the plan may pay
  • current coverage stage
  • amount you must pay
  • total out-of-pocket expenses
  • amount others can pay, such as another insurer (if applicable)
  • pharmacy charges for your medications

Qulipta is the brand-name version of the generic drug atogepant. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this medication to prevent migraine.

Qulipta (atogepant) is in a group of migraine medications called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) blockers. CGRP is a naturally occurring protein in your body.

The medication works by blocking the activity of CGRP because if you have migraine, CGRP may cause pain and inflammation in your nervous system.

The drug does not work for acute migraine episodes, but you can take the medication daily to help prevent episodes from happening.