How Much Is Citalopram Without Insurance

Citalopram - the generic version of the brand-name medication Celexa - is an antidepressant classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. It's FDA approved to treat depression in adults, which it does by raising serotonin levels in the brain. Be careful not to confuse citalopram with escitalopram (Lexapro). They sound alike and are closely related, but they're not the same medication.

Sometimes, citalopram is prescribed off-label to help with other conditions, like premenstrual dysphoric disorder and panic disorder.

Citalopram comes as oral tablets, capsules, and liquid solution. The cost can change based on the form, dosage, and other factors.

How much does citalopram cost?

Without insurance, the cost of citalopram tablets varies based on form and dose. Here's what you might pay for the medication at some pharmacies.

If you need the liquid solution, citalopram comes in a concentration of 10 mg/5 mL. It costs $104.57 for a 150 mL bottle or $154.68 for 240 mL. Your prescribed dosage determines how long a bottle will last. For example, a 240 mL bottle lasts 24 days at a 20 mg daily dosage.

What factors affect the cost of citalopram?

Citalopram prices, like other prescription medications, depend on many factors, such as:

• Location: Where you live affects your prescription costs. For example, GoodRx research shows you might pay more than the national average for prescription medications in New York City and Lexington, Kentucky. But in Houston, prescription medication costs are generally much less than the national average.

• Pharmacy: Prescription medication prices can vary among pharmacies in your area.

• Insurance: Even with insurance, you may still need to pay a deductible, coinsurance, and copay when buying citalopram.

• Dose: Your prescriber may start you on a 20 mg daily dosage of citalopram. They may raise it to 40 mg if needed. The dosage and quantity you need will affect the cost.

• Form: Some citalopram forms are more expensive than others. For example, there is a significant price difference between citalopram tablets and the oral solution, even at the same dose. A 30-day supply of 20 mg citalopram tablets might cost $16.94. But the equivalent prescription for the oral solution could cost $188.08.

Does insurance cover citalopram?

Most insurance plans cover generic citalopram, but coverage differs depending on your insurer and plan. Check your plan's formulary to verify citalopram coverage.

Medicare Part D plans must cover medications from certain categories, including antidepressants, though each plan decides which specific ones to include. Medicare Advantage plans may cover citalopram, but the exact coverage depends on the insurer and plan. Medicaid coverage rules vary by state, though these plans may also cover citalopram. Still, your insurance might not cover citalopram if it's prescribed off-label.

If your insurance doesn't cover generic citalopram, try the following steps:

• Ask your prescriber about alternatives.

• Request a formulary exception if citalopram isn't on your plan's list.

• If your insurance company denies your request, appeal their decision.

• Consider changing insurance plans during open enrollment periods to one that has more robust coverage.

Ways to save on citalopram

These tips can help you save money on citalopram, whether you have insurance coverage or not:

1. Get a GoodRx coupon

A GoodRx coupon can help lower the cost of generic citalopram at some pharmacies. Visit www.goodrx.com or download the GoodRx app to get your free coupon. Show your coupon when you arrive at the pharmacy - before they scan your medication to begin check out. This helps prevent delays.

Here's what you might pay for the medication based on quantity, form, and dose when you use a GoodRx coupon:

2. Use the citalopram capsule copay card

For those who prefer capsules or need the 30 mg dose in 1 pill, the citalopram capsule copay card could help lower costs.

With this card, insured people can pay as little as $10 a month. Those uninsured or without coverage for the medication may pay around $75 for a 30-day supply. This program doesn't apply if you have Medicaid, Medicare, Tricare, or other federal health programs.

3. Request a 90-day prescription

Ask your prescriber for a 90-day prescription. Many pharmacies offer discounts on larger quantities. Insurers may also have lower copays for 90-day supplies. It's a smart way to save time and money.

4. Consider tablet splitting

Cutting citalopram tablets in half might lower your costs. For example, 15 citalopram 40 mg tablets could last you 30 days if your dose is 20 mg per day. Some citalopram tablets come with a score (line down the middle), which means they're designed to be cut if needed. But be aware that not all medications can be safely split.

Capsules, for example, should not be crushed or chewed. If you're prescribed citalopram capsules, check with your prescriber or pharmacist about the proper way to take them.

5. Tap into your HSA or FSA funds

The funds in your health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) can be used to pay for citalopram.

You can use your HSA or FSA card for the purchase or pay out-of-pocket and request reimbursement later. Just remember to use your FSA money before it expires to avoid losing it.