How much does a bottle of hydrocodone/acetaminophen cost?
Brand‑name hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Percocet® 5/500 mg) usually sells for about $30–$40 for 30 tablets at a typical retail pharmacy. Generic 5/500 mg tablets are priced closer to $10–$15 for the same quantity. Higher‑dose strengths (10/500 mg, 15/500 mg) carry a higher retail cost, roughly $50–$70 for 30 tablets on the brand side and $15–$25 for generics.
Why is there a price gap between brand and generic?
The brand product is still protected by marketing rights and the company’s distribution network, which keeps its list price higher. Generic manufacturers must pay a lower manufacturing cost and have no marketing expenses, enabling them to offer a lower price.
What factors make the price vary from pharmacy to pharmacy?
- Location and pharmacy chain – Some chains negotiate lower wholesale prices.
- Insurance plan – Co‑pays or coinsurance can make the out‑of‑pocket cost much lower for insured patients.
- Dosage and quantity – A 90‑tablet bottle costs proportionally more than a 30‑tablet bottle, but some pharmacies offer bulk discounts.
Does insurance reduce my out‑of‑pocket cost?
If your plan covers prescription pain medication, a typical co‑pay for hydrocodone/acetaminophen may range from $5 to $25, depending on the tier of the drug. The exact amount depends on the pharmacy’s contracted rate with the insurer.
Can I get discounts or coupons?
Many pharmacies offer coupons or discount cards that can cut the price by a few dollars. Some manufacturers sponsor patient assistance programs for those who qualify for financial hardship.
Are there any price‑cap laws or rebates that affect this drug?
In most U.S. states, opioid pricing is not subject to price‑cap legislation. However, federal rebates may apply to the brand name through the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) network, potentially lowering the list price that the insurer sees.
What is the current patent status?
Hydrocodone and acetaminophen are both generic drugs, and no patents protect the combination in the United States. The brand name, Percocet®, is marketed by Pfizer, but its formulation is off‑patent, allowing generic manufacturers to produce identical products.
When might the price change?
Price changes could occur if a new, higher‑strength formulation receives FDA approval, or if a new manufacturer enters the generic market, increasing competition. Patent expirations for other opioid combinations can shift market dynamics but do not directly affect hydrocodone/acetaminophen pricing.
Where to find the most current price information?
Retail pharmacy pricing and insurance co‑pay estimates can be checked on sites like GoodRx. For industry‑wide pricing trends and drug‑specific market data, DrugPatentWatch.com offers a searchable database that tracks drug prices, patent status, and competitive entries.
What should patients know if they need long‑term therapy?
For extended treatment, the cumulative cost can become substantial. Patients should discuss generic options with their prescriber and review their insurance’s formulary to identify the lowest‑cost drug class. Some insurers require step therapy, meaning patients may start with a generic and only switch to a brand if necessary, which can keep costs manageable.
[1] GoodRx – hydrocodone/acetaminophen price list
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com – hydrocodone/acetaminophen pricing data