Budesonide Cost
Budesonide, the generic version of Rhinocort Aqua, is used to treat the symptoms of asthma and if used daily, this inhaled prescription can help decrease the number and the severity of asthma attacks. However, like other inhalers, it will not relieve an asthma attack if it already started.
How much does Budesonide cost?
The cost of Budesonide will depend on the dosage, quantity, your health insurance and the pharmacy you choose. Without any insurance, the prices can range anywhere from as little as $70 for 60 milliliters of a 0.25 MG/2 ML suspension to as much as $875 for 180 milliliters of a 1 MG/2 ML inhaler. Refer to our table below for cost estimates.
| Dosage | Price (without insurance) |
|---|---|
| 0.25 MG/2 ML SUSP | - 60 mls: $75 - 120 mls: $135 - 180 mls: $190 |
| 0.5 MG/2 ML SUSP | - 60 mls: $95 - 120 mls: $165 - 180 mls: $240 |
| 1 MG/2 ML INH SUSP | - 60 mls: $315 - 120 mls: $600 - 180 mls: $900 |
How did we gather these estimates? We referenced the Costco pharmacy directory and called Walmart, Sam’s Club, CVS and Walgreens to gather an estimate for those without health insurance coverage.
As for health insurance, it appears many policies do not cover this particular drug as most, from what we researched, often have their own preference. GoodRX.com, for example, claims all Medicare plans do not cover this drug, but to be certain, either talk directly with your health insurance company or refer to your insurance company’s online drug cost database if they have one available.
How to save on Budesonide
Manufacturer coupon
Salix Pharmaceuticals offers the UCERIS Instant Savings Program, which is a program designed to help patients with commercial insurance pay no more than $25. To see if you qualify, you can download or activate the instant savings card by filling out this online form. Be sure to read the fine print on that page before applying as there are many restrictions as to who can and cannot use the savings card.
Use a third-party prescription coupon website
Drugs.com and GoodRx.com, for example, offer discounted prescription cards you can print at home and take to your local pharmacy to pay the price noted on the website. Granted, if you do consider this option, do keep in mind that you can only use the prescription discount card or your health insurance, not both. These cards, greatly depending on the drug prescribed, can save you up to 70% in some cases.
What is Budesonide?
Budesonide is a corticosteroid or steroid (cortisone-like medicine), working by preventing any swelling in the lungs, which will help make an asthma attack less severe. Inhaling budesonide can also be prescribed with other asthma-based medicines, such as bronchodilators, which is also used to help open up the narrowed breathing passages inside of the lungs. This medicine cannot be purchased over the counter and is available by prescription only.
The product is available in the following forms: as a suspension, powder, solution, aerosol powder or aerosol liquid.
Budesonide brand name
In the United States, it has the following brand names: Pulmicort Flexhaler, Pulmicort Respules and Pulmicort Turbuhaler.
In Canada, it has the following brand names: Pulmicort, Pulmicort Nebuamp and Rhinocort Turbuhaler.
Source: Mayo Clinic
Budesonide side effects
- Allergic reactions such as a skin rash, itching or hives
- Change in vision
- Fever, sore throat, cough or sign of infection
- Increased thirst
- Frequent passing of urine
- Pain in hips, back, arms, ribs or shoulders
- Severe stomach pain
- Feeling weak or tired
- Vomiting
This is not a full list of side effects; for more information, refer to this FDA guide. As always, report any symptoms you feel uncomfortable with to your doctor immediately.
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Average Reported Cost: $0
