How Much Does Chantix Cost? Is There a Generic Version?

Chantix can cost up to $500 for a one-month supply.

There is currently no generic version. Quitting smoking is difficult. If you are having a tough time, your doctor may prescribe the smoking cessation medication Chantix. ^{(Learn More)} Chantix may be especially helpful for smokers who have been diagnosed with depression.

Brand-name medication can be expensive. Insurance may help you cover the cost of Chantix, saving you money. ^{(Learn More)}

Be careful with online pharmacies that claim to sell a generic version of the medication, as this option is not yet available. ^{(Learn More)} Many online pharmacies prey on people who are trying to save money on this medication. ^{(Learn More)} There are other ways you can save money on Chantix. ^{(Learn More)}

How Chantix Works

In a case study published in October 2010, Patient Preference and Adherence reported that approximately 46 million Americans smoke despite the negative consequences associated with tobacco. The study said that up to 70 percent of people who smoke want to quit, but they often try to do so on their own. Chantix works by decreasing a person’s desire to smoke. It is known to decrease the feeling of satisfaction in people who do end up smoking, eventually ensuring patients no longer crave cigarettes. A report from TIME magazine says that the Veterans Affairs Office prescribes medication like Chantix only after patients have attempted other methods to quit smoking. This includes bupropion, behavioral techniques, and nicotine replacement

The Cost of Chantix

Chantix costs an average of $287 for a 30-day supply. The medication can cost up to $500 for this type of supply because the price of this medication has increased ever since its introduction to the market in 2006. This cost can be a major hindrance for people who want to stop smoking and need help. Thankfully, some insurance programs are known to cover Chantix. Ask your insurance provider if they have included Chantix in their covered medications. Depending on your insurer, you may be responsible for a copay. Copay amounts will vary by provider.

Is There a Generic Form of Chantix? 

There are no generic versions of Chantix at the moment. Some reports predict that a generic version may be released to the public in May 2020. Online pharmacies that claim to sell a generic form of Chantix may be selling unsafe counterfeits, according to consumer website Drugs.com. You should never buy discount Chantix online from an unverified pharmacy. If you have purchased this type of Chantix, talk to your doctor before taking it.

What Are Other Ways to Save on the Cost of Chantix?

Another way to save money on Chantix is to see if you can obtain a manufacturer’s discount coupon from Pfizer, the medication’s manufacturer. Pfizer also has an online savings card that can allow you to get refills for anywhere from $40 to $75. You may be able to use this card for added savings even if your insurance plan covers your medication. Here are a few additional suggestions to save money on Chantix:

• Call different pharmacies and compare prices to find the cheapest option.

• Ask your doctor to suggest alternatives that are more cost-effective.

• Buy a 90-day supply right away, which can save you money in the long run.

• Request that your doctor submits a letter of appeal if your insurer decides not to cover Chantix for you anymore.

• Enroll in Pfizer’s Patient Assistance Program. Patients who prove they have special financial needs may be able to get Chantix for free if they enroll and meet certain criteria.

• Obtain free samples from your doctor.

• See if Medicaid will pay for at least part of your Chantix prescription. NPR reports that many state Medicaid programs cover smoking cessation medication, including Chantix.

• Use sites like Save.Health to get the best prices on medications.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What does Chantix do?

Chantix is a medication that assists people who want to stop smoking. It may be especially helpful for people who smoke and also struggle with depression. It works by decreasing cravings for tobacco and lessening feelings of reward for people who relapse. 

Is there a generic version of Chantix?

Not at the moment. Pharmacies that claim to sell generic Chantix tablets may be selling a counterfeit or unsafe product. However, it is predicted that a generic version of Chantix will be available around May 2020. 

How can insurance help me pay for Chantix?

Your insurance may already cover Chantix. All you have to do is call your insurance provider and ask. If your provider decides to remove Chantix from its coverage, your physician may be able to help you write an appeal. Medicaid may also be able to cover all or some of your Chantix prescription.

What if I do not have insurance?

Your doctor may be able to give you a few free samples if they are available. If not, Pfizer has a Patient Assistance Program and a discount card you may be able to use. You can also save money by purchasing from sites that offer discount cards and rebate programs

References

What is Chantix? (July 2015). NerdWallet.

Varenicline for Smoking Cessation: Efficacy, Safety, and Treatment Recommendations. (October 2010). Patient Preference and Adherence.

Trying Quit Smoking? Don’t Start With Chantix, Say Some Experts. (November 2011). TIME.

Varenicline (Marketed as Chantix) Information. (December 2016). Food and Drug Administration.

Varenicline Helps Smokers With Depression to Quit Smoking. (September 2013). UC San Diego Health.

Medicaid Programs Fall Short When It Comes to Helping Smokers Quit. (January 2016). NPR. Generic Chantrix. Availability. Drugs.