Arimidex (anastrozole) – a quick snapshot on cost
| Item |
Typical U.S. price range* |
Notes |
| Brand‑name Arimidex (5 mg tablets) |
$1,200–$1,600 per 28‑day supply |
Prices vary by pharmacy and region. |
| Generic anastrozole (1 mg tablets) |
$25–$80 per 28‑day supply |
Generic versions are 1 mg; you’ll need a 5‑tablet pack for the standard 5 mg daily dose (5 mg total). |
| Monthly cost (generic) |
$125–$400 |
Depends on whether you need a 1 mg or 0.5 mg dose, and on whether you’re taking a full 5 mg tablet or splitting tablets. |
| Insurance coverage |
0–80 % of cost |
Most plans cover generic anastrozole; brand‑name coverage is less common but can be covered with a prior‑authorization. |
| Patient assistance programs |
Free or discounted |
Gedeon (the manufacturer) offers a patient assistance program (PAP) for qualified patients who cannot afford medication. |
*These are approximate figures based on 2024 U.S. pharmacy pricing. Prices can fluctuate with market changes, pharmacy discounts, and insurance contracts. If you’re abroad, prices can be dramatically different.
How to reduce cost
| Strategy |
What to do |
Pros |
Cons |
| Use a generic |
Switch to generic anastrozole (often 1 mg). |
95‑99 % cheaper than brand. |
You may need to split tablets (if your prescriber orders a 5 mg dose). |
| Check your pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) |
Ask your plan if they prefer a specific pharmacy or if they have a “preferred” manufacturer list. |
Might get a lower copay. |
May force you to use a pharmacy you didn’t choose. |
| Apply for a PAP |
Visit the Gedeon patient assistance website and fill out the eligibility form. |
Free medication if approved. |
Requires income documentation and may have a waiting period. |
| Use discount coupons |
Look for manufacturer or pharmacy coupons. |
Reduces copay. |
Not always available, and the savings can be modest. |
| Ask your prescriber |
Some doctors have “in‑house” discount programs or can recommend the lowest‑cost formulation. |
Can simplify the process. |
May not be available for all providers. |
Quick FAQ
Q: Can I split a 5 mg tablet into 1 mg doses?
A: Yes, but only if it’s an anastrozole tablet (not a brand‑name Arimidex that’s formulated to stay intact). Ask your pharmacist to confirm that the tablet is “splittable” and that the manufacturer guarantees dose accuracy when split.
Q: Does insurance cover the brand‑name Arimidex?
A: Most insurers prefer generic anastrozole because it’s far cheaper. Brand‑name coverage is usually available with prior authorization or a higher copay. Check your plan’s formulary.
Q: What if I’m on a 0.5 mg daily dose?
A: Generic anastrozole comes in 1 mg tablets. You can ask your pharmacist to crush or split the tablets to achieve a 0.5 mg dose, but confirm with your prescriber that this is acceptable.
Bottom line
If you’re looking to keep your monthly drug bill low, generic anastrozole is the way to go. Reach out to your pharmacy, check your plan’s formulary, and explore manufacturer assistance if needed. Always confirm with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your prescription.