How Much Does Accutane Cost?

Last Updated on January 26, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is one of the most effective oral treatments for severe acne. But how much does Accutane cost? The price can vary quite a bit based on your insurance coverage, pharmacy choice, dosage, treatment length, and more.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key factors that influence Accutane pricing. You’ll learn how insurance affects costs, explore generic Accutane as a budget-friendly option, and pick up tips for finding financial assistance. We’ll also share real-life experiences from Accutane users on affording treatment.

How Much Does Accutane Cost?

The cost of Accutane is heavily influenced by your insurance plan. With coverage, most patients pay $25 to $75 per month. The average monthly out-of-pocket cost with insurance is around $50. Without coverage, brand name Accutane can cost $400 to $700 per month, while generic versions range from $150 to $350.

Insurance plans like Medicaid often fully cover Accutane. Most private plans cover it as well, but deductibles, copays, and coinsurance lead to variable out-of-pocket costs. Talk to your dermatologist and insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and options.

Please note that the original Accutane brand has been discontinued by the manufacturer. The listed prices are for generic versions of the medication.

GoodRx notes that prices for Accutane start at $68.93.

According to PharmacyChecker, Generic Absorica (Accutane) 10 mg discount prices at U.S. pharmacies start at $2.14 per capsule for 30 capsules.

SingleCare writes that the average retail price for Accutane is $575.37 per 6, 10 Capsules Box, but you can pay just $190.98 for 2, 30 capsules Disp Pack of generic Accutane with a SingleCare drug coupon.

Drugs.com says that the cost of an Accutane oral capsule of 30 mg is around $200 for a supply of 30 capsules, depending on the pharmacy you visit.

You can pay only $49 per month for Accutane with or without insurance through the NiceRx patient assistance program.

Accutane for Treating Severe Acne

Accutane (isotretinoin) is a derivative of vitamin A that reduces oil production, treats inflammation, and prevents acne-causing bacteria. It’s prescribed for 4 to 6 months to treat severe acne that hasn’t responded to other medications.

While extremely effective, Accutane has significant side effects like dryness and sun sensitivity. Strict safety protocols are in place due to the risk of birth defects. But for many with cystic acne or scarring, Accutane can be life-changing.

What Factors Influence the Price of Accutane?

Several key factors contribute to Accutane’s pricing:

• Brand vs. generic: Brand name Accutane is more expensive than generic isotretinoin.
• Insurance coverage: Your out-of-pocket costs depend on your specific plan.
• Pharmacy: Prices can vary between drugstores. Shop around.
• Dosage: Higher doses cost more. Typical range is 0.5 to 1 mg/kg daily.
• Treatment length: Longer course of 4 to 6 months increases overall cost.
• Location: Costs are affected by local healthcare prices.

Generic Isotretinoin Offers Significant Savings

Generic isotretinoin can lower your expenses by 50% or more compared to the brand name Accutane. For example, a month of brand name Accutane may cost $700, versus just $350 for a generic equivalent.

Many generic versions are approved by the FDA, including Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, and Zenatane. Talk to your dermatologist about switching to generic isotretinoin to save money.

You might also like our articles about the cost of dermaplaning, milia removal, or sebaceous cyst removal.

Additional Costs of an Accutane Treatment Course

Beyond the prescription itself, an Accutane treatment plan involves additional healthcare expenses:

• Dermatologist visits to monitor progress and side effects
• Bloodwork to check for triglyceride and liver enzyme changes
• Pregnancy tests for women monthly
• Moisturizers and lip treatments to manage dryness side effects

Having a clear picture of these ancillary costs allows you to budget properly for treatment. Good insurance helps cover dermatology appointments and lab tests depending on eligibility.

Financial Assistance and Savings Programs

If affording Accutane is a challenge, here are some tips:

• Apply for financial assistance programs offered by the drug manufacturer.
• Use prescription discount cards and apps to save 10-25% at the pharmacy.
• Ask your dermatologist for medication samples to offset out-of-pocket costs.
• Consider ordering your prescription via an international online pharmacy to access lower prices.
• Ask your pharmacy about payment plans or coupons to lower your isotretinoin treatment costs.

Real Experiences from Accutane Users

To understand the real-world costs of Accutane treatment, we asked users to share their experiences:

Jennifer paid around $40 per month with insurance: “Between my insurance copay and the iPledge monthly fees, my total cost was manageable.”

Mark’s son took generic isotretinoin for $15 a month using a prescription discount card.

Jessica’s 6-month Accutane treatment cost $3,500 without insurance. Her dermatologist provided medication samples which helped offset the price.

Peter compared prices between local pharmacies and paid $20 less per month at a grocery store pharmacy versus CVS.

Comparing and Lowering Your Accutane Costs

To get the best price on isotretinoin, be sure to:

• Compare pharmacy prices and use discount cards, Accutane coupons, or apps.
• See if switching to a generic version will lower your costs.
• Ask your insurance about copay assistance programs.
• Inquire about manufacturer rebates or coupons.
• Order the exact amount needed each month to avoid waste.
• Purchase moisturizers and lip treatments in bulk to save.

Final Words

While the cost of Accutane can be high without insurance, options exist to lower your out-of-pocket expenses. Compare pharmacy pricing, utilize discounts and financial aid, and switch to affordable generic versions.

For those with severe cystic acne, Accutane’s proven results make the investment worthwhile. Focus on accessing the treatment you need at the most affordable price. Your clear skin will be priceless!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Accutane Worth It?

Yes, for many severe acne sufferers, Accutane is worth the investment. While the cost and side effects shouldn’t be taken lightly, Accutane can provide life-changing clearing of cystic and scarring acne after all other treatments have failed.

Long-term remission is possible. Discuss the pros and cons with your dermatologist.

Is It Hard to Get Accutane?

Getting an Accutane prescription involves more steps than most medications due to the risks. You’ll need monthly office visits, bloodwork, pregnancy tests for women, and you must be enrolled in the iPledge program.

But with your dermatologist guiding you through the process, it is very obtainable for appropriate candidates. Be prepared for extra appointments and costs.

Is Accutane Covered By Insurance?

In most cases yes, Accutane is covered by insurance, but the extent depends on your specific plan. Medicaid and many private insurers cover it, although you’ll likely have copays.

Without coverage, the costs can be very high, so check your benefits. Some manufacturers also offer financial assistance programs if insurance coverage is lacking.