The drug only has to be taken once a day and is available in chewable form for children or those who cannot take capsules. While Vyvanse has proven to be effective in minimizing symptoms associated with ADHD, the biggest setback is the cost. While your insurance coverage and location are factors in the cost of prescriptions like Vyvanse, a month’s supply can cost more than a couple hundred dollars.
Is a Generic Form Available?
The biggest problem is that there is not a generic for Vyvanse, despite there being ways to save on the medication. Generic medications are much more affordable, and despite what some may think, are the exact same as name brand options. The active ingredient, effects, and dosages are the same.
Generic drugs can only be made available after the brand name patent expires. In 2023 a generic for Vyvanse, known as lisdexamfetamine, may be available, but until then, there are other ways to save money. If you or a loved one is struggling to pay for prescriptions, you may be able to lower the costs with one of the following methods:
1.File an Insurance Appeal
There are some insurance companies that don’t cover Vyvanse. This means that you’re responsible for paying the entire cost of the prescription on your own. If you’re unsure if your insurer covers Vyvanse, locate the formulary online.
Even if your insurance company doesn’t cover Vyvanse, not all hope is lost. Ask your doctor to work with you to submit an appeal. Most insurance companies are required to cover prescriptions that are determined to be medically necessary. Your doctor can help you with the documentation needed before submitting your appeal.
2.Compare Prices Online
Just like retail stores have different prices for clothes, shoes, and groceries, pharmacies have different prices for prescription drugs. While it’s convenient to go to the pharmacy that you’ve used for years, you may be able to save money by going to different location.
To determine if you’re getting the best price on Vyvanse, use the internet to compare prices at different pharmacies. Knowing where to go to get the lowest price will surely keep more money in your pocket.
3.Ask for a Longer Supply
A quick way to save some money on your Vyvanse prescription is to ask your doctor to write a script for a longer subscription. A 90-day supply not only saves you trips to the pharmacy, it can also save you money on copay and other fees. For a longer supply, your doctor may need to get approval from your insurance company so be sure to check with your health professionals before making the switch.
4.Use Manufacturer Savings
Pharmaceutical companies offer all sorts of coupons and patient assistant programs to make their prescriptions more affordable. Vyvanse is manufactured by a company called Shire. Shire offers a manufacturer coupon as well as a patient assistant program for those who need to take Vyvanse but cannot afford the cost.
The manufacturer coupon can bring the total cost of your prescription down to $30 if you’re insured. The patient assistance program can provide Vyvanse to qualified patients for free.
5.Consider Alternative ADHD Stimulants
Finding the right stimulant that minimizes your ADHD symptoms, causes minimal side effects, and isn’t too hard on your bank account can be hard. While you should never switch or stop taking Vyvanse without first discussing with your doctor, it’s worth noting that there are other stimulants that have proven to be successful in treating ADHD.
Top options include Adderall and Concerta, both of which are available in generic form. Be aware that these drugs are not a one for one. For example, Adderall may require several doses throughout the day where Vyvanse only requires a single dosage.
If the cost of Vyvanse is causing financial hardship, discuss other treatment options with your doctor.
No patient should ever have to choose between their prescription medications and living a financially sound life. If you’ve been prescribed Vyvanse and cannot afford the out of pocket costs, keep these tips in mind to save money while still properly treating ADHD.
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