How Much Is Lexapro Without Insurance? 2025 Complete Cost Guide
Author:
Blossom Editorial
Aug 22, 2025
If you're wondering "how much is Lexapro without insurance," you're not alone. Many people need this popular antidepressant, but worry about the cost without health coverage.
Without insurance, the average cost for a 30-day supply of 10mg Lexapro tablets can exceed $400, and Escitalopram (the generic) can cost anywhere from $15 to $120 for 30 10mg tablets.
The good news is that there are many ways to save money on this important medication, even if you don't have insurance.
Key Takeaways
Brand-name Lexapro can cost between $442-$549 per month without insurance, while generic escitalopram costs only $15-$120 for the same amount, and often just $5-$25 with insurance.
Using prescription saving apps can reduce generic Lexapro costs to as low as $7-$9 for a 30-day supply, often cheaper than insurance copays.
Prices vary dramatically between pharmacies - the same prescription can cost $56 at CVS but $120 at Rite Aid, so comparing prices is essential.
What is Lexapro?
Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram, a type of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating major depressive disorder (unipolar) in adults and adolescents (ages 12 to 17) for both acute and maintenance phases.
The medication works by helping to balance serotonin levels in your brain, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
In 2022, it was the second most prescribed antidepressant and the fifteenth most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 30 million prescriptions.
Understanding the cost difference between brand-name and generic versions is key to saving money on this medication.
Lexapro Cost Without Insurance: Brand vs. Generic
The price difference between brand-name Lexapro and generic escitalopram is significant, making this one of the most important factors in your medication costs.
Brand Name Lexapro Prices
The total costs per patient treated were $2845 for escitalopram compared to $3176 for venlafaxine in a 6-month cost-effectiveness study. However, without insurance, brand-name Lexapro typically costs:
$442-$549 for 30 tablets (10mg)
CVS: Around $469 for a 30-day supply
Walgreens: Around $488 for a 30-day supply
Rite Aid: Around $533 for a 30-day supply
Generic Escitalopram Prices
The generic version is much more affordable. On average, the generic version of the drug (Escitalopram oxalate) costs $61.59 for a 10 mg, 30 tablet prescription.
Here's what you can expect to pay at major pharmacy chains:
CVS: Around $56 for generic escitalopram
Walgreens: Around $61 for generic escitalopram
Rite Aid: Around $120 for generic escitalopram
The generic version contains the same active ingredient and works the same as brand-name Lexapro, but costs a fraction of the price.
Most insurance plans cover generic escitalopram, making it even more affordable for people with health coverage.
Factors That Affect Lexapro Cost
Several factors influence how much you'll pay for Lexapro without insurance:
Dosage Strength
Lexapro comes in three strengths:
5mg tablets
10mg tablets
20mg tablets
Higher doses typically cost more, though the difference is usually small compared to brand vs. generic savings.
Quantity Purchased
You may find that filling a 90-day supply will reduce your total cost for this prescription. As an added bonus, you'll make fewer trips to the pharmacy, saving you time and money.
Pharmacy Choice
The price of Lexapro often varies among different pharmacies — even pharmacies on the same block. This makes shopping around essential for getting the best price.
Location
Urban areas may have higher medication costs than rural areas due to differences in overhead costs and local competition.
Best Ways to Save Money on Lexapro
There are several proven strategies to reduce your Lexapro costs without insurance.
Use Prescription Discount Apps
GoodRx: Get Escitalopram for as low as $7.01, which is 84% off the average retail price of $43.26 for the most common version, by using a GoodRx coupon.
SingleCare: Pay a discounted price of $8.60 for 30, 10mg tablets of generic Lexapro when you use your SingleCare savings card. This may even work out to be cheaper than with insurance.
Choose Generic Over Brand Name
The generic version (escitalopram) is FDA-approved as equivalent to brand-name Lexapro but costs significantly less.
A Danish cost-effectiveness model of escitalopram in comparison with citalopram and venlafaxine as first-line treatments for major depressive disorder shows that escitalopram offers significant economic advantages. Generic medications typically cost about 80% to 85% less than brand-name medications.
Shop Different Pharmacies
Prices can vary dramatically between pharmacies. From the data shared below, the average cost of generic Escitalopram among six major U.S. pharmacy chains is $22.36 using prescription coupons or membership benefits.
Consider Mail-Order Pharmacies
Mail-order pharmacies often offer lower prices and the convenience of home delivery. Many also offer 90-day supplies at discounted rates.
Buy in Larger Quantities
If you can buy a 90-day supply of the medication instead of a 30-day supply, your monthly costs will typically be lower.
Ask About Cash Discounts
Some independent pharmacies offer cash discounts for customers paying out-of-pocket. It never hurts to ask if they have any special pricing for uninsured patients.
Pharmacy Price Comparison
Here's how major pharmacy chains compare for generic escitalopram without insurance:
Costco: Typically, the lowest prices (membership required)
CVS: Around $56 for a 30-day supply
Walgreens: Around $61 for 30-day supply
Walmart: Competitive pricing, often under $50
Rite Aid: Highest prices, around $120 for a 30-day supply
With discount coupons, these prices can drop significantly:
GoodRx: As low as $7.01
SingleCare: Around $8.60
Pharmacy-specific programs: Varies by location
Patient Assistance Programs
If you're struggling to afford Lexapro even with discounts, several programs may help:
Manufacturer Programs
Some pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs for people who qualify based on income and insurance status.
State Programs
Many states have prescription assistance programs for residents who meet certain criteria.
Nonprofit Organizations
Organizations like NeedyMeds and RxAssist help connect patients with prescription assistance programs.
Community Health Centers
Local community health centers often provide medications at reduced costs based on your ability to pay.
Tips for Getting the Best Price for Lexapro
Before You Go to the Pharmacy
Compare prices online using GoodRx, SingleCare, or pharmacy websites
Call multiple pharmacies to ask about their cash prices
Ask your doctor about generic alternatives and lower-cost options
Check if you qualify for any patient assistance programs
At the Pharmacy
Ask about generic options if your prescription is for brand name Lexapro
Inquire about cash discounts or pharmacy-specific savings programs
Show your discount coupon before they process your prescription
Ask about 90-day supplies to reduce long-term costs
Long-Term Strategies
Consider mail-order pharmacies for ongoing prescriptions
Look into pharmacy membership programs like Costco or warehouse clubs
Keep comparing prices as they can change over time
Explore insurance options during open enrollment periods
When to Consider Insurance
While these strategies can make Lexapro affordable without insurance, consider getting health coverage if:
You need multiple medications
You require regular medical care
You're eligible for subsidized plans through the marketplace
Your employer offers affordable coverage
Many insurance plans cover generic antidepressants with low copays, which might be more convenient than managing discount programs.
Bottom Line
The cost of Lexapro without insurance can range from $56 – $503 for a 30-day supply, but you have many options to reduce these costs significantly. Cost-effectiveness analyses published in peer-reviewed journals consistently show that escitalopram provides good value compared to other antidepressants, even at higher prices. By choosing generic escitalopram, using discount apps, and shopping around, you can often get your medication for under $10 per month.
The most important steps are:
Choose generic over brand name (saves hundreds of dollars)
Use discount apps like GoodRx or SingleCare
Compare prices at different pharmacies
Consider 90-day supplies for additional savings
With these strategies, the cost of Lexapro without insurance doesn't have to be a barrier to getting the mental health treatment you need.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Individual responses to medications can vary significantly, and what applies to one person may not be safe for another.
Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before making any decisions about medication changes, discontinuation, or interactions with other substances. If you're experiencing concerning symptoms or side effects, please seek professional help from a healthcare provider. In case of a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately or call 911. For mental health emergencies, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
Important: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Never stop taking prescribed medication or make changes to your treatment plan without consulting your healthcare provider first. Your safety and well-being are the top priorities.
