MS. HEATHER CHRISTINE COUCH FNP
Prescription History 1992166839
Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care in Santa Cruz, CA
NPI Status: Active since March 18, 2016
Prescription History for Informed Healthcare Decisions
Explore the verified Medicare Part D prescription history, volume metrics, and calculated drug costs for MS. HEATHER CHRISTINE COUCH FNP, an active Primary Care specialist practicing in Santa Cruz, CA. Our medical registry currently tracks 20 unique pharmaceutical formulations prescribed by this provider, representing an estimated volume of 462 documented patient claims. Among these therapy options, the most frequently utilized medication is Atorvastatin Calcium, which accounts for 76 claims alone.
Medication Index
Amlodipine Besylate
Generic Formulation: Amlodipine BesylateSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$29.01
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$9.16
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker. It is effective in the treatment of ANGINA PECTORIS and HYPERTENSION.
Amlodipine is used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Amlodipine belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Amlodipine is also used to prevent certain types of chest pain (angina). It may help to increase your ability to exercise and decrease the frequency of angina attacks. It should not be used to treat attacks of chest pain when they occur. Use other medications (such as sublingual nitroglycerin) to relieve attacks of chest pain as directed by your doctor.
Atorvastatin Calcium
Generic Formulation: Atorvastatin CalciumSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$21.58
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$14.16
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A pyrrole and heptanoic acid derivative, HYDROXYMETHYLGLUTARYL-COA REDUCTASE INHIBITOR (statin), and ANTICHOLESTEREMIC AGENT that is used to reduce serum levels of LDL-CHOLESTEROL; APOLIPOPROTEIN B; and TRIGLYCERIDES. It is used to increase serum levels of HDL-CHOLESTEROL in the treatment of HYPERLIPIDEMIAS, and for the prevention of CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES in patients with multiple risk factors.
Atorvastatin is used along with a proper diet to help lower bad cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and raise good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It belongs to a group of drugs known as statins. It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver. Lowering bad cholesterol and triglycerides and raising good cholesterol decreases the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.
Breo Ellipta
Generic Formulation: Fluticasone/VilanterolSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$427.24
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$509.39
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
This medication is used to prevent and decrease symptoms (wheezing and trouble breathing) caused by asthma and ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema). This inhaler contains 2 medications: fluticasone and vilanterol. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing the swelling of the airways in the lungs to make breathing easier. Vilanterol belongs to a class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. When used alone, long-acting beta agonists (like vilanterol) may rarely increase the risk of serious (sometimes fatal) asthma-related breathing problems. However, combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonists, such as this product, do not increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems. For asthma treatment, this product should be used when breathing problems are not well controlled with one asthma-control medication (such as inhaled corticosteroid) or if your symptoms need combination treatment. Before using this medication, it is important to learn how to use it properly. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.
Buprenorphine
Generic Formulation: BuprenorphineSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$272.99
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$345.96
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A derivative of the opioid alkaloid THEBAINE that is a more potent and longer lasting analgesic than MORPHINE. It appears to act as a partial agonist at mu and kappa opioid receptors and as an antagonist at delta receptors. The lack of delta-agonist activity has been suggested to account for the observation that buprenorphine tolerance may not develop with chronic use.
This medication is used to help relieve severe ongoing pain (such as due to arthritis, chronic back pain). Buprenorphine belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid analgesics. It works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain. The higher strengths of this drug (7.5, 10, 15, or 20 micrograms per hour patches) should be used only if you have been regularly taking moderate amounts of opioid pain medication. These strengths may cause overdose (even death) if used by a person who has not been regularly taking opioids. Do not use this medication to relieve pain that is mild or that will go away in a few days. This medication is not for occasional (as needed) use.
Buprenorphine Hcl
Generic Formulation: Buprenorphine HclSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$85.13
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$67.97
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A derivative of the opioid alkaloid THEBAINE that is a more potent and longer lasting analgesic than MORPHINE. It appears to act as a partial agonist at mu and kappa opioid receptors and as an antagonist at delta receptors. The lack of delta-agonist activity has been suggested to account for the observation that buprenorphine tolerance may not develop with chronic use.
Buprenorphine is used to help relieve severe ongoing pain. Buprenorphine belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid analgesics. It works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain. Do not use this medication to relieve pain that is mild or that will go away in a few days. This medication is not for occasional (as needed) use.
Diclofenac Sodium
Generic Formulation: Diclofenac SodiumSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$29.62
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$41.99
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent (NSAID) with antipyretic and analgesic actions. It is primarily available as the sodium salt.
See also Warning section. This medication is used to relieve joint pain from arthritis. Diclofenac belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain.
Famotidine
Generic Formulation: FamotidineSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$41.58
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$6.17
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A competitive histamine H2-receptor antagonist. Its main pharmacodynamic effect is the inhibition of gastric secretion.
Famotidine is used to treat ulcers of the stomach and intestines and to prevent intestinal ulcers from coming back after they have healed. This medication is also used to treat certain stomach and throat (esophagus) problems (such as erosive esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease-GERD, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It works by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach makes. It relieves symptoms such as cough that doesn't go away, stomach pain, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. Famotidine belongs to a class of drugs known as H2 blockers. This medication is also available without a prescription. It is used to prevent and treat heartburn and other symptoms caused by too much acid in the stomach (acid indigestion). If you are taking this medication for self-treatment, it is important to read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully so you know when to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Fenofibrate
Generic Formulation: Fenofibrate NanocrystallizedSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$6.46
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$50.58
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
An antilipemic agent which reduces both CHOLESTEROL and TRIGLYCERIDES in the blood.
Fenofibrate is used along with a proper diet to help lower bad cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and raise good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It works by increasing the natural substance (enzyme) that breaks down fats in the blood. Fenofibrate belongs to a group of drugs known as fibrates. Lowering triglycerides in people with very high triglyceride blood levels may decrease the risk of pancreas disease (pancreatitis). However, fenofibrate might not lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of fenofibrate. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.
Fluticasone Propionate
Generic Formulation: Fluticasone PropionateSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$28.21
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$16.79
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A STEROID with GLUCOCORTICOID RECEPTOR activity that is used to manage the symptoms of ASTHMA; ALLERGIC RHINITIS, and ATOPIC DERMATITIS.
Fluticasone is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma. Controlling symptoms of asthma helps you maintain your normal activities and decreases time lost from work or school. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs to make breathing easier. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.
Gabapentin
Generic Formulation: GabapentinSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$47.31
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$21.28
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A cyclohexane-gamma-aminobutyric acid derivative that is used for the treatment of PARTIAL SEIZURES; NEURALGIA; and RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME.
Gabapentin is used with other medications to prevent and control seizures. It is also used to relieve nerve pain following shingles (a painful rash due to herpes zoster infection) in adults. Gabapentin is known as an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug.
Ibuprofen
Generic Formulation: IbuprofenSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$8.50
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$9.06
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent with analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties
Ibuprofen is used to help relieve mild to moderate pain. When used with an opioid (such as morphine), it may be used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It is also used to reduce fever. Ibuprofen is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking your body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation. This effect helps to decrease swelling, pain, or fever.
Levothyroxine Sodium
Generic Formulation: Levothyroxine SodiumSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$25.42
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$19.74
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
The major hormone derived from the thyroid gland. Thyroxine is synthesized via the iodination of tyrosines (MONOIODOTYROSINE) and the coupling of iodotyrosines (DIIODOTYROSINE) in the THYROGLOBULIN. Thyroxine is released from thyroglobulin by proteolysis and secreted into the blood. Thyroxine is peripherally deiodinated to form TRIIODOTHYRONINE which exerts a broad spectrum of stimulatory effects on cell metabolism.
Levothyroxine is used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. Low thyroid hormone levels can occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured by radiation/medications or removed by surgery. Having enough thyroid hormone is important for maintaining normal mental and physical activity. In children, having enough thyroid hormone is important for normal mental and physical development. This medication is also used to treat other types of thyroid disorders (such as thyroid cancer). This medication should not be used to treat infertility unless it is caused by low thyroid hormone levels.
Lisinopril
Generic Formulation: LisinoprilSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$27.31
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$9.65
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
One of the ANGIOTENSIN-CONVERTING ENZYME INHIBITORS (ACE inhibitors), orally active, that has been used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure.
Lisinopril is used to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It is also used to treat heart failure and to improve survival after a heart attack. Lisinopril belongs to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.
Losartan Potassium
Generic Formulation: Losartan PotassiumSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$36.14
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$13.35
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
An antagonist of ANGIOTENSIN TYPE 1 RECEPTOR with antihypertensive activity due to the reduced pressor effect of ANGIOTENSIN II.
Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to help protect the kidneys from damage due to diabetes. It is also used to lower the risk of strokes in patients with high blood pressure and an enlarged heart. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Losartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.
Metformin Hcl
Generic Formulation: Metformin HclSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$11.32
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$10.07
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A biguanide hypoglycemic agent used in the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus not responding to dietary modification. Metformin improves glycemic control by improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose. (From Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia, 30th ed, p289)
Metformin is used with a proper diet and exercise program and possibly with other medications to control high blood sugar. It is used in patients with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Metformin works by helping to restore your body's proper response to the insulin you naturally produce. It also decreases the amount of sugar that your liver makes and that your stomach/intestines absorb.
Metoprolol Succinate
Generic Formulation: Metoprolol SuccinateSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$23.55
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$20.10
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A selective adrenergic beta-1 blocking agent that is commonly used to treat ANGINA PECTORIS; HYPERTENSION; and CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS.
This medication is a beta-blocker used to treat chest pain (angina), heart failure, and high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This drug works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body (such as epinephrine) that affect the heart and blood vessels. This lowers heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.
Metoprolol Tartrate
Generic Formulation: Metoprolol TartrateSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$6.55
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$9.13
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A selective adrenergic beta-1 blocking agent that is commonly used to treat ANGINA PECTORIS; HYPERTENSION; and CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS.
Metoprolol is used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication is also used to treat chest pain (angina) and to improve survival after a heart attack. Metoprolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta blockers. It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This effect lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.
Spironolactone
Generic Formulation: SpironolactoneSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$6.85
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$13.26
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
A potassium sparing diuretic that acts by antagonism of aldosterone in the distal renal tubules. It is used mainly in the treatment of refractory edema in patients with congestive heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, or hepatic cirrhosis. Its effects on the endocrine system are utilized in the treatments of hirsutism and acne but they can lead to adverse effects. (From Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia, 30th ed, p827)
Spironolactone is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It is also used to treat swelling (edema) caused by certain conditions (such as heart failure, liver disease) by removing excess fluid and improving symptoms such as breathing problems. This medication is also used to treat conditions in which the body is making too much of a natural substance (aldosterone). Spironolactone is known as a water pill (potassium-sparing diuretic).
Trulicity
Generic Formulation: DulaglutideSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$1,817.37
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$1,318.91
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
Dulaglutide is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. This medication is also used to lessen the risk of a major cardiovascular event (such as heart attack or stroke) in people who already have, or are at high risk for heart/blood vessel disease. Dulaglutide is similar to a natural hormone in your body (incretin). It works by causing insulin release in response to high blood sugar (such as after a meal) and by decreasing the amount of sugar your liver makes. Dulaglutide is not a substitute for insulin if you need insulin treatment.
Vascepa
Generic Formulation: Icosapent EthylSpecialty: Nurse PractitionerProvider Avg Cost Per Claim
$192.24
State Avg Cost Per Claim
$454.57
Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.
Icosapent ethyl is used along with certain other cholesterol medications (statins such as atorvastatin, simvastatin) to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and certain types of heart problems that require treatment in a hospital. It is also used along with a proper diet to help lower fats (triglycerides) in the blood. Icosapent ethyl is a type of omega-3 fatty acid, a fat found in fish oil. It is thought to work by decreasing the amount of triglycerides made by the body. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.
Dataset Methodology & CMS Source Information
This analytical profile maps public infrastructure records sourced directly from official **Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)** public data releases. The statistics above track documented pharmaceutical treatment trends assigned to beneficiaries specifically under federal public programs. Evaluating the prescriptive footprints of clinical practitioners like MS. HEATHER CHRISTINE COUCH FNP provides transparency into local medical care patterns within Santa Cruz, CA.
Key Learning Objectives for this Profile:
- Prescribing Frequencies: Track and evaluate the volume metrics of specific brand-name and generic medical formulas chosen by this provider over time.
- Clinical Focus Areas: Identify how the provider distributes therapeutic selections across medical care options to gain insight into their true day-to-day **Primary Care** practice concentrations.
- Program Cost Awareness: Review the calculated total systemic drug costs and raw transactional volumes linked to these orders to better anticipate network insurance coverage structures.
- Patient-Centered Evaluation: Cross-reference localized regional care comparisons to align practitioner habits directly with your proactive health maintenance goals.
Data Scope Exclusion & Limitations: The data elements presented above explicitly reflect prescription orders processed for Medicare beneficiaries during the year 2023. This informational profile does not aggregate prescription data for individuals utilizing private commercial health plans, state Medicaid coverage, or self-pay options. However, because medical decision-making remains highly consistent across clinical settings, this public registry provides a reliable proxy for understanding the general prescribing preferences and pharmaceutical care approach used by this provider.