How Much Does a Poison Ivy Shot Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

Poison ivy is a plant that can cause a rash known as contact dermatitis.  This rash will have the characteristics of being red, itchy and can come with small fluid-filled blisters or hives and will show up about 36 to 48 hours after contact.  It can last up to two weeks and spread if you scratch the blistered areas and spread the oils.

The poison ivy rash is one of the most dreaded things that people can contract, and because the rash is so itchy, it can easily be irritated enough to turn into scabs that can last for weeks.

Poison Ivy 034 by cygnus921, on Flickr
Poison Ivy 034” (CC BY 2.0) by cygnus921

How much does a poison ivy shot cost?

The poison ivy shot, which is often a cortisone injection,  is around $12 to as high as $45, and typically, the price will depend on the doctor’s office.  This fee won’t include the doctor’s office fee.  Most of the time, a doctor will use a shot for those who are suffering from severe allergic reactions.  If he or she doesn’t feel your situation is severe, then he or she will more than likely prescribe a cream, pill and/or an ointment.  Regardless of the treatment path for poison ivy, plan on spending about $150 without insurance at your local doctor’s office.

If you have a health insurance policy, there is a good chance that this procedure could be covered.  Refer to your policy to know exactly what is covered, and if you do not have a policy, consider sites such as eHealthInsurance.com to find a good policy in your area.

Poison ivy shot overview

After a shot is administered, a doctor will prescribe a cream that should be used for up to three days.  This cream will help poison ivy be less itchy and will also aid in faster healing.

Common shots that a doctor can administer include steroid and cortisone injections.

When you receive a poison ivy shot, the treatment that should relieve you from the discomfort you’re feeling from the rash.  Office visits to the doctor will be probably considered as the more practical choice; however, for the severe allergic reactions to the poison ivy plant, you may have to visit an urgent care.  Each person may react differently when in contact with poison ivy, so the treatment may not be the same for everyone.

What are the extra costs?

A shot may not get rid of the poison ivy 100 percent, and additional creams and/or medication may be required.  These additional creams and medication will often cost $10 to $25, depending on the brand and prescription.  For example, an oral corticosteroid, such as Prednisone, is often prescribed and can cost about $30 without insurance.

As noted above, the fees won’t include the doctor’s office fee.  Most fees, without insurance, will be in the $55 to $100 range.  If you decide to visit an urgent care, then the costs could double or triple.

Tips to know:

Be aware that contact with the actual poison ivy plant is not the only way to contract poison ivy.  You can also catch it from coming in contact with clothing or other objects that have the oils from the plant.

By scratching the rash, the oils will get on your fingers and can be spread to different areas of your body.  Make sure you wash your hands often, and while tempting, avoid scratching the affected areas.

How can I save money?

A shot isn’t always necessary unless you’re in a lot of pain.  Consider trying over-the-counter medications or creams before calling your local doctor.  Popular skin cleansers on Amazon.com, for instance, retail for $10 to $25.


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