Generic ADHD Medications
Choosing a generic medicine over a name-brand one is often a good way to save money on prescription drugs. Although there can be a great deal of variability in cost, if you or your child is able to take a generic version, you will likely pay (before insurance or any coupons):
Amphetamine salt combo (generic Adderall): $85 to $120 for 60 tablets Amphetamine salt combo XR (generic Adderall XR): $180 to $200 for 30 capsules Dexmethylphenidate (generic Focalin): $85 to $100 for 60 tablets Dexmethylphenidate XR (generic Focalin XR): $200 for 30 capsules Methylphenidate ER (generic Concerta): $250 for 30 tablets Methylphenidate (generic Ritalin): $75 to $90 for 60 tablets
Still, these are all bargains when you consider that a month of Vyvanse can cost well over $300.
Saving Money
In addition to choosing generic ADHD medication when you can, there are other money-saving strategies that may help.
Shop Around
Prices at different pharmacies can vary by $25 to $40 or more depending on the medication. Use a drug pricing site, such as GoodRx, to look for the best prices on your medications.
Ask Your Doctor for Help
Talk with your doctor about alternatives to name-brand ADHD medications that don’t have generics, such as Vyvanse and Daytrana. And remember that in some cases, your doctor can give you free samples of medicines so you can try them and see if they work for your child.
Look for Coupons or Patient Assistance Programs
Coupons are available for many name-brand ADHD medications that don’t have generic versions. You can find coupons on GoodRx or by checking the manufacturer’s website. Manufacturers may have their own patient assistance programs, or you can check to see if you are eligible for a broader prescription assistance program, such as NeedyMeds.
Get a Prescription Discount Card
Prescription drug discount cards are similar to patient assistance programs in that they can help reduce the prices of many drugs you purchase. You can use them as a supplement to any insurance coverage you have and some, such as SingleCare, are open to anyone, regardless of income.
Use Caution
Don’t try to save money by ordering an ADHD medication from an illegal or foreign website, which will simply put your child at risk. In addition to getting scammed out of your money, you may receive a contaminated or counterfeit product, the wrong product, or an incorrect dose. Also avoid unproven or non-evidence based treatments, which will likely end up costing you more in the long run.
