How Much is Buspar With & Without Insurance?

Buspar was the brand name for the generic drug buspirone, a prescription medication used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). While Buspar is no longer on the market, the generic drug form, buspirone, is still sold. Buspar is still used casually, though, as an unofficial name for the generic. Buspirone can be effective for anyone trying to manage intense or long-term anxiety symptoms, but as with any drug, the cost can be a factor.  

Understanding Buspar (Buspirone) cost without insurance vs. with it is vital in ensuring you get the best treatment for your needs. What exactly is the Buspar price without insurance? How does that compare to its price if you do have coverage? Are there ways to reduce the cost if you don’t have insurance? 

Here, we’ll discuss all these questions and more as we explore Buspar (buspirone)cost without insurance and with it.

“Buspirone may be significantly more affordable compared to the discontinued brand name drug, Buspar. Buspirone is covered with insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid. So look into your options.”

– Talkspace therapist Famous Erwin, LPC

Is Buspar (Buspirone) Covered by Insurance?

Most major medical healthcare plans, Medicare, and Medicaid will cover at least some portion of the cost associated with a prescription like buspirone, assuming it’s medically necessary for treating a diagnosed condition like generali zed anxiety disorder. 

That said, there may be limits on how much your insurer covers based on things like dosage and frequency. Check with your pharmacy before you fill a buspirone prescription. It’s also important to note that some insurers may require prior authorization before covering the costs associated with this medication.  For more questions on coverage, Talkspace provides online therapy covered by Medicare, and treatment plans that take Cigna, Anthem, and more. Medicare Advantage does not cover Talkspace at this time.

Cost of Buspar (Buspirone) Without Insurance

Without insurance coverage, the cost of buspirone will vary. A 30-day supply can range from under $10 to $50. Prices change depending on geographical area, pharmacy deals, and other factors.  

Before filling your prescription medicine, ask your pharmacist what the cash price is for buspirone and if they have any suggestions on how you might be able to get that cost down. 

 Factors that impact the cost of Buspar (buspirone)

The cost of buspirone (or any other drug) will depend on several factors, including: 

• The pharmacy you use 
• Your insurance plan
• The dosage you’re prescribed
• If you have discounts from the pharmacies, manufacturer coupons, or special online offers 
• If you fill your Rx through a mail-order service or get Buspirone online

“If you have insurance or Medicare, you may receive lower prices if you fill your prescriptions through your insurance plan’s mail-order pharmacy. Many insurance plans (and most Medicare plans) now offer similar rates at select “preferred” retail pharmacies. Some plans may require that you fill through a mail order pharmacy for fills of more than a 30-day supply.”

– Talkspace therapist Famous Erwin, LPC

Make sure to also factor in the cost of a psychiatrist visit, as you can’t get Buspar’s generic version if you don’t have a prescription from a psychiatrist.

Cost of Buspar (Buspirone) With Insurance

If you have employer-sponsored health insurance, your plan likely provides coverage for buspirone. However, the cost of buspirone with insurance will vary depending on your individual plan and the extent of drug coverage. 

Generally, most insurance companies cover buspirone, though there may be some restrictions or limits on how much they’re willing to pay. 

How to Get Buspar (Buspirone) Without Insurance 

Fortunately, you can get most drugs at a reduced cost, even without insurance coverage. Use the following steps: 

1. Ask your healthcare provider: The first step to getting buspirone without insurance is to speak with your doctor. They may be able to suggest alternatives or ways to get the cost down.
2. Compare prices: You can also compare prices at pharmacies and online retailers to find the best deal on buspirone without insurance. Ask about discounts for buying in bulk, too.
3. Look into patient assistance programs: Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs (PAPs) that help cover the cost of psychiatrist-prescribed medications without insurance coverage. While there may not be any Patient Assistance Programs available for buspirone currently, it’s still worth looking into these aid options carefully in case something is offered in the future. 
4. Use coupons and discounts: There are often coupons available from drug manufacturers or coupon sites that can help reduce the cost of buspirone when purchased without insurance coverage. Cash-paying customers may also benefit from discounts certain pharmacies offer.

“You may find that filling a 90-day supply will reduce your total cost for this prescription medication. As a bonus, you’ll make fewer trips to the pharmacy, saving you time and money.”

– Talkspace therapist Famous Erwin, LPC

Affordable Online Mental Health Treatment

Finding affordable mental healthcare and treatment can be a challenge. Fortunately, even for those who lack resources or insurance coverage to access traditional in-person therapy or psychiatry services, Talkspace Psychiatry provides an online psychiatry platform offering low-cost mental health services from licensed professionals.  

Get connected with an online psychiatrist and find support at Talkspace.