*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Escitalopram coupons and discounts can help you save on prescription costs. Without insurance, 5 mg of escitalopram costs about $12-$27 for a month’s supply. Using generic Lexapro, pharmacy discounts, and online coupons are all ways to save money on your prescription. Using a mail-order pharmacy and getting a 90-day supply can also lower the price of your generic Lexapro prescription.
If you’re considering escitalopram, online psychiatry platforms can be a good place to start. Talkiatry works with many major insurance plans and Brightside Health takes cash payments. Both platforms can connect you with a provider quickly for psychiatric assessments and prescription consultation.
Boxed Warning: Escitalopram (Lexapro): Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Escitalopram, the active ingredient in Lexapro, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Escitalopram can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with escitalopram and any other medications before starting treatment.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance
Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
How Much Is Generic Lexapro Without Insurance?
The cost of generic Lexapro without insurance may be affected by the pharmacy you choose, any coupons or discounts you use, and the specific dosage prescribed by your provider.
Escitalopram Prices
The cost of escitalopram, the generic form of Lexapro, currently ranges from $12-$27 for a 30-day supply of 5 milligrams without insurance. Your prescription of escitalopram may cost much less with insurance depending on your plan and coverage. A similar prescription of Lexapro costs $442-$587. The cost will also vary based on the dosage and amount prescribed. Coupons for escitalopram are often available and may reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Note: Cash prices listed are derived from multiple sources. The prices listed are an estimate only and cannot be guaranteed. For exact prices, please contact the pharmacy.
Walmart
$16
Walgreens
$35
CVS / Target
$27
RiteAid
$16
Kroger
$15
Costco
$18
Hy-Vee
$12
Publix
$24
Albertsons
$15
How Much Does Generic Lexapro Cost With Insurance?
The cost of escitalopram with insurance can vary based on your coverage type. The final escitalopram price you pay may differ based on your insurance plan, deductible, and copay. review your insurance policy or to contact your insurance provider to understand the full extent of your coverage.
Commercial Insurance
The cost of escitalopram with insurance can vary depending on copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance rates. Some plans may even provide discounts or preferred pricing for certain medications. Also, your insurance determines whether you get the name brand or the generic version, such as escitalopram, and typically gives you the generic if it’s available since it costs less. Your insurance company may offer other benefits and savings, such as using mail-order pharmacy options or prescription savings programs.
Medicare
At this time, 100% of Medicare prescription drug plans cover escitalopram. Medicare coverage is similar to commercial coverage, but at a lower cost once your deductible is met. Your deductible is based on the amount the government sets each year. Medicare also determines whether you get the name brand or the generic version. Be aware that coverage may change, so it’s important to check your Medicare plan before filling your prescription.1
Medicaid
Escitalopram is classified as a preferred drug under Medicaid, which means it is prioritized as a low-cost treatment. This also means this medication is available without a prior authorization.2 Additionally, Medicaid recipients may explore state-specific prescription assistance programs or other cost-saving initiatives.
TRICARE
Escitalopram is likely covered by your TRICARE plan. Depending on your coverage, escitalopram may be either required or preferred over brand name Lexapro. The TRICARE website has a lookup tool, so check there to verify whether escitalopram is covered by your plan.3
Escitalopram Coupons, Savings Cards, & Discounts
Escitalopram can cost less with discount cards and coupons. Discount cards function much like coupons and can be used at many pharmacies. Lexapro coupons and discount cards can be found on online platforms such as GoodRx and SingleCare, and possibly at your local pharmacy.
Popular Choices for Online Psychiatry
Talkiatry – Safe, virtual mental health care from doctors who take insurance. Most psychiatry visits cost patients $30 or less* Take a short assessment.
Circle Medical – anxiety and depression treatment. Meet with an online doctor today! All prescriptions are based on necessity determined by a medical professional. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. No membership or hidden fees. Same day appointments. Visit Circle Medical
*Includes copayment, deductible, coinsurance, and $0 Visits. Excludes no shows. **On average. Actual appointment times vary by state and individual patient.
Escitalopram Cost Savings Programs
Escitalopram cost savings programs are available from organizations such as The Rx Advocates and Rx Outreach. Some organizations provide information about cost savings programs. Others assist with the application and enrollment process. These programs typically require you to meet specific income criteria to qualify. To join these types of programs, you usually need to complete an application and provide your income documentation and proof of insurance.
The Rx Advocates
The Rx Advocates offer ways to save on your escitalopram prescription. This advocacy service helps individuals find coupons and apply for patient assistance programs for prescription medications. Assistance programs are only offered for brand name medications since generic medications are typically much less expensive. However, coupons can often be used at any pharmacy and often do not require an application process.4
Rx Outreach
Rx Outreach is a copay program that helps patients find affordable medications for low-income communities. This program provides over 1,000 affordable medications, including escitalopram (generic Lexapro).5
Here are the eligibility criteria for the Rx Outreach Medications Copay Program:6
- Must have a valid prescription
- May have insurance but prescription costs are out-of-pocket
- Patients must reside in the U.S.
- Individuals or family income must be at or below the 400% Federal Poverty Level
Other Ways to Find Escitalopram Coupons & Discount Cards
Escitalopram coupons and discount cards are available online, at pharmacies, and via the mail. These and other options may help save money when filling your prescription for escitalopram.
Pharmacy Discounts and Savings Cards
Pharmacy chains and retailers may offer discounts for escitalopram, although this availability is not guaranteed since this generic medication is already inexpensive. Some pharmacies require an active prescription for them to check if they have a discount card within their system, but this may vary depending on the retailer.
Online Resources and Apps
Some online resources help connect patients with discount cards and coupons for escitalopram. GoodRx, RxSaver, and WellRx are some examples of these sites, and many have mobile apps to make coupon use easy. Note that the cost of escitalopram on these discount cards can fluctuate day to day, depending on when you fill your medication.
HSA Accounts
A health savings account (HSA) is a feature of high-deductible health insurance plans. HSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax money from your paycheck to pay for certain health expenses. This means the money you contribute to this account is not subject to federal taxes, and the full amount is available for use. Contact your company directly to learn whether your escitalopram prescription is eligible.7
Ask About Getting a 90-day Supply
If you and your prescriber determine that escitalopram is suitable for you, getting a 90-day supply can save money. Refilling every three months is often less expensive and more convenient than refilling every month. This also lessens the chance of running out before a refill is needed. Mail-order pharmacies typically offer 90-day supplies to cut down on the cost of shipping and operating local pharmacies.
Fill Your Prescription by Mail-order
Your insurance may partner with a mail-order pharmacy and provide 90-day supplies for at a lower cost. After your provider calls in the prescription, your medication is typically delivered to your home within two weeks. Mail-order prescriptions are ideal for medications that are not temperature sensitive and are used as long-term treatments.8
How to Get an Escitalopram Prescription
To get a prescription for escitalopram, you will first need a psychiatric evaluation. Begin by consulting your primary provider, who may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. They may refer you to a psychiatrist to further evaluate your symptoms. A provider doing an evaluation will consider your medical history, any medications or substances you are using, and other factors. With this information, they will then determine whether escitalopram is the right treatment for you.
To get prescribed escitalopram online, you will also start by getting evaluated by an online psychiatric provider. We have thoroughly reviewed platforms like Talkiatry or Circle Medical that prescribe antidepressants like escitalopram, and found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation. If your provider feels escitalopram is a good fit for your symptoms, they may offer you an online prescription for the medication.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance
Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
Escitalopram Alternatives
For some individuals, escitalopram alternatives may need to be considered. It may take several weeks before you feel the full effects of antidepressant medication. Everyone responds in a unique way to medication, and your age, health history, and previous experience with side effects can have an impact. Your doctor will help to decide which medication may work best for you.
Prescriber’s Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Escitalopram?
Escitalopram, the active ingredient in brand name Lexapro, is an antidepressant medication in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drug family. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder in children and adults.9
How Does Escitalopram Work?
Escitalopram is thought to work by affecting the activity of serotonin, a chemical in the brain.9 For some, this may lead to improved mood and decreased anxiety.
Why Is Brand-name Lexapro So Expensive?
Brand name medications like Lexapro undergo costly research for safety and effectiveness under the patent. Generics, such as escitalopram have the same active ingredient. They don’t require the same level of testing to sell it, making it a less expensive option.10
Is Generic Lexapro an Expensive Drug?
Generic Lexapro is a relatively inexpensive drug. The average price of a 30-day supply is much less than brand-name Lexapro, even without coupons or discounts.
Can You Use an Escitalopram Coupon With Insurance?
It depends, some savings programs may allow it while others may not. Check with the program you are applying to understand their restrictions on using insurance.
How Can I Lower My Long-Term Prescription Escitalopram Costs?
Getting a 90-day supply, filling your prescription via mail order, and using generics are all ways to lower long-term drug costs. For those who qualify, patient assistance and discount programs can also help you save money on your medication.
Can I Use Coupons for Escitalopram at My Pharmacy?
Yes, you can use escitalopram coupons at many pharmacies.
Does the Cost of Escitalopram Vary Depending on the Strength?
It’s possible. Costs may also vary depending on your insurance and the pricing at various pharmacies. The dosage of your prescription may also be a factor.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Medicare and Escitalopram. (n.d.). GoodRx.com. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/escitalopram/medicare
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Medicaid List of Covered Drugs (Formulary). (June, 2024). HealthPartners.com. Retrieved from https://www.healthpartners.com/ucm/groups/public/@hp/@public/documents/
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TRICARE Formulary Search. (n.d.). Express-Scripts.com. Retrieved from https://www.express-scripts.com/frontend/open-enrollment/tricare/fst/#/
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Lexapro Coupon & Patient Assistance Programs. (n.d.). TheRxAdvocates.com. Retrieved from https://therxadvocates.com/prescriptions/lexapro/
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Find Your Medication. (n.d.). RxOutreach.com. Retrieved from https://rxoutreach.org/find-your-medication/
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Frequently Asked Questions. (n.d.). RxOutreach.com. Retrieved from https://rxoutreach.org/frequently-asked-questions/
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What Are HSA-eligible Plans? (n.d.). Healthcare.gov. Retrieved from (https://www.healthcare.gov/high-deductible-health-plan/hdhp-hsa-information/
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Getting a Prescription Filled. (July 8, 2023). MedlinePlus.gov. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001956.htm
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ESCITALOPRAM OXALATE tablet. (January 23, 2025). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Generic Drugs: Questions & Answers. (March 16, 2021). FDA.gov. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/frequently-asked-questions-popular-topics/generic-drugs-questions-answers
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
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Primary Changes: Updated Dailymed resource link to the most recent.
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Primary Changes: Updated cost information in intro paragraph and “Escitalopram Prices” section.
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Primary Changes: Updated cost information in intro paragraph and “Escitalopram Prices” section.
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Primary Changes: Updated cost information in intro paragraph and “Escitalopram Prices” section.
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Primary Changes: Updated cost information in the “Escitalopram Prices” section.
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Primary Changes: Added new sections titled “The Rx Advocates”, “Rx Outreach”, “HSA Accounts”, “Ask Your Prescriber for Samples”, “Ask About Getting a 90-day Supply”, Fill Your Prescription by Mail-order”, “Escitalopram Alternatives”, “Prescriber’s Tips”, “FAQs”; Revised introduction and sections titled “How Much Does Generic Lexapro Cost Without Insurance?”, “How Much Does Generic Lexapro Cost With Insurance?”, “Escitalopram Cost Savings Programs”, “How to Get a Escitalopram Prescription”; Reviewed and added relevant sources. Edited for readability and clarity.
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Virtual Psychiatry
Circle Medical – Anxiety and Depression Treatment. Meet with an online doctor today! All prescriptions are based on necessity determined by a medical professional. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. No membership or hidden fees. Same day appointments. Visit Circle Medical
Talkiatry – Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with expert psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Free Assessment
Therapy for Anxiety & Medication Management
Brightside Health – develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1 on 1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start Free Assessment
Talk Therapy
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