But there is good news—there are multiple ways for you to reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
How much does Bystolic cost?
As of July 2018, the cash price of Bystolic is around $160 for 30 tablets. GoodRx discounts can help reduce this price a bit—to about $140—but that’s still way too much for most people.
When will generic Bystolic be available?
Unfortunately, there is no generic Bystolic available, and we won’t see one for some years. Some predict that generic Bystolic may not be available until September 2021.
Even though we may have to wait many years to see a generic, there are other ways to save on Bystolic.
Savings Tip #1: Use your insurance, or ask your doctor to submit an appeal
The best way to save on brand-name drugs is by using your insurance, but sometimes that doesn’t work. Recently, more people have been on the hook for the high cost of these drugs because of high deductibles or plans dropping certain drugs from their formulary.
If you have insurance and your plan doesn’t cover Bystolic, ask your doctor about submitting an appeal. The exact process will depend on your insurer but often requires that you work with your doctor to submit a letter of appeal. If you have insurance, call your provider and ask how to get this process started.
Savings Tip #2: Pay only $35 with the Bystolic savings card
You may be able to use a manufacturer coupon for Bystolic to save on your out-of-pocket costs. Here’s what you need to know about Bystolic’s manufacturer discount program:
Savings Tip #3: Apply for a patient assistance program
The Allergan Patient Assistance Program can help uninsured patients afford their medications. Here’s what you need to know:
You may be able to use a manufacturer coupon for Bystolic to save on your out-of-pocket costs. Here’s what you need to know about Bystolic’s manufacturer discount program:
Savings Tip #4: Speak to your doctor about prescription workarounds
If none of the above options work for you, speak with your doctor about ways to save. Your doctor may talk to you about getting a prescription for a higher-dose pill (which you can cut in half to save on cost), filling a 90-day supply (which can be cheaper than a 30-day supply), or getting free samples.
Savings Tip #5: Ask your doctor about Bystolic alternatives
For those without insurance or adequate coverage, Bystolic can be too expensive.
Fortunately, there are multiple generic beta blockers on the market today that work similarly to Bystolic to treat high blood pressure. Metoprolol and carvedilol are two cost-effective generic options—a 30-day supply of metoprolol costs around $15, while a 30-day supply of carvedilol costs around $50. In fact, there is no evidence that Bystolic is better than these two generics, so they may be worth speaking with your doctor about.
Source: Read Full Article