How Much Cheaper Are Generic Crestor Tablets?
Generic rosuvastatin, the equivalent of brand-name Crestor, costs 70-90% less at retail pharmacies. A 30-day supply (20 mg dose) of brand Crestor averages $250-$400 without insurance, while the generic runs $10-$50 for the same quantity, depending on the pharmacy and quantity purchased.[1][2]
Prices fluctuate by dose, quantity, and location—lower doses like 5 mg or 10 mg generics often dip under $20 monthly. Online discounters like GoodRx report averages as low as $12 for 30 tablets of 20 mg generic versus $387 for brand.[1]
Why the Price Gap Exists
Crestor lost patent protection in 2016, allowing multiple generic makers (e.g., from Teva, Mylan, Lupin) to enter the market. This competition drove prices down sharply within months—generics captured over 90% market share by 2017.[3] Brand Crestor, made by AstraZeneca, remains pricier due to marketing and lack of generic pressure.
With Insurance or Coupons, What Savings Look Like
Most plans cover generics at low copays ($5-$20), while brand often requires prior authorization or higher tiers ($50+ copay). Without coverage:
- Walmart: Generic 20 mg (30 tabs) ~$13; brand ~$370.
- CVS: Generic ~$18; brand ~$410.[1][2]
Use tools like GoodRx or SingleCare for coupons—generic prices can hit $9. Brand rarely qualifies for deep discounts.
Does Dose or Form Affect Generic Savings?
Savings hold across strengths (5 mg to 40 mg tablets), with higher doses slightly pricier but still 80%+ cheaper. No generic for Crestor's Sprinkle capsules yet, so brand dominates there at full price (~$500/month).[4]
| Dose (30 tablets) | Generic Average | Brand Average |
|-------------------|-----------------|---------------|
| 5 mg | $10 | $250 |
| 10 mg | $12 | $280 |
| 20 mg | $15 | $390 |
| 40 mg | $20 | $420 |[1][2]
When Might Brand Be Cheaper (Rare Cases)?
If a plan excludes generics or a patient needs the Sprinkle form, brand could edge out. Otherwise, generics match efficacy with identical active ingredient—FDA deems them bioequivalent.[3]
[1]: GoodRx - Rosuvastatin Prices
[2]: Drugs.com - Crestor Price Guide
[3]: FDA - Generic Rosuvastatin Approval
[4]: Drugs.com - Crestor Sprinkle