Living with depression can feel isolating, and the cost of treatment can make it harder to take steps toward feeling better. About 47.8 million Americans have depression or are receiving treatment for it, a rate that has continued to rise since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. For many people, starting medication brings understandable financial concerns.

Sertraline has been shown to help reduce symptoms of depression. Clinical trials indicate that this medication can also be effective for anxiety. Still, high costs can create barriers to accessing care that may be helpful. The good news is that there are ways to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Our team at ReKlame Health is here to answer questions and help you explore more affordable options.

Read on to learn seven strategies that may help lower the cost of sertraline, so you can find a price that fits your needs. 

7 strategies to make sertraline more affordable

Finding a lower-cost option for sertraline doesn’t have to be complicated. Without insurance, a 30-day supply of sertraline may cost around $31.44. However, there are several practical steps you can take to help reduce that price.

Here are seven strategies that may help make this medication more affordable.

• Ask your provider about taking sertraline instead of Zoloft

Sertraline is the generic version of Zoloft. Both medications contain the same active ingredient and are FDA-approved. However, sertraline typically costs less because it’s produced by multiple manufacturers. Increased competition often drives prices down. Choosing the generic option may lead to meaningful savings, especially if you plan to take the medication longer term.

• Check insurance coverage

Your health insurance plan may cover some or all of the cost of sertraline. To understand your benefits, review your prescription coverage or contact your insurance provider directly. Ask about copays, preferred pharmacies, and whether any prescription assistance programs are available. Checking ahead of time can help reduce unexpected costs at the pharmacy.

• Compare pharmacy prices

Medication prices can vary from one pharmacy to another. Tools like GoodRx can help you compare prices at pharmacies near you. In some cases, prices may differ even within the same pharmacy chain, so checking multiple locations could help you find a lower-cost option.

• Use manufacturer or pharmacy coupons

Some pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies offer coupons or discount cards that can lower the retail price of sertraline. These savings programs may help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Here are a few discount card options to explore:

• GoodRx
• WellRx
• BuzzRx
• Optum Perks

• Look into a 90-day supply

Filling a 90-day prescription instead of a 30-day supply may help lower the cost per pill and reduce the number of refills you need. Many insurance plans encourage longer supplies because they can be more cost-effective. Ask your provider or pharmacist whether this option is appropriate for you. 

• Ask your provider about dosage options

In some cases, certain dosages may be more cost-effective while still supporting your treatment needs. For example, higher-strength tablets may cost less per dose than lower-strength versions. Your provider can help determine the safest and most effective dosage and schedule for you.

• Explore mail-order pharmacies

Mail-order pharmacies can offer a convenient and affordable option for obtaining sertraline. Many provide discounted pricing and 90-day supplies, often with home delivery. Some insurance plans also partner with preferred mail-order pharmacies that offer lower copays.

Because mail-order pharmacies may have fewer overhead costs, they can sometimes pass savings along to you. This option may be worth exploring if convenience and cost are priorities.

ReKlame can help you find a lower-cost option for sertraline

Managing depression can be challenging without added stress about medication costs. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to reduce the price of sertraline. Asking questions, comparing options, and exploring available resources may lead to meaningful savings over time.

At ReKlame, our care team is here to support you in finding accessible, affordable mental health care. We can help you review your options and explore ways to reduce the cost of sertraline so finances don’t become a barrier to care.

Give our care team a call today for more information, check your eligibility for free online or book an initial appointment online.