Key takeaways:
Adapalene (Differin, Differin OTC) is a topical retinoid that treats mild-to-moderate acne.
The cost of adapalene without insurance can depend on what dosage form you’re prescribed, whether you choose a brand-name or generic product, and where you fill your prescription.
Choosing a generic adapalene product can help you save on the cost of your medication. A GoodRx discount could also help you save.
Save on related medications
Adapalene (Differin, Differin OTC) is a topical retinoid that treats mild-to-moderate acne. It’s available as a prescription gel, cream, or lotion. It also comes as an over-the-counter (OTC) gel.
If you don’t have insurance, the cost of adapalene can depend on what dosage form you’re prescribed, whether you choose a brand-name or generic product, and where you fill your prescription. Here, we’ll review the average cost of adapalene without insurance, along with ways to save on the acne medication.
How much does adapalene cost without insurance?
Adapalene is available under the brand name Differin and as a lower-cost generic. The chart below shows the average retail prices for different adapalene products without insurance.
What factors affect the cost of adapalene?
Several factors can affect the cost of adapalene.
Brand-name vs. generic availability
Brand-name Differin products typically cost more than generic adapalene products. Insurance companies also typically prefer the lower-cost, generic versions and often charge lower copays for them.
Dosage and quantity
How much you pay for adapalene can depend on what dosage form you’re using. For example, the gel pump typically costs more than a tube of gel. A larger quantity (such as 45 g) also typically costs more than a smaller one (such as 15 g).
Location
Where you live can affect the cost of your medication. For example, according to GoodRx research, medications are typically more affordable in Denver than in New Orleans.
Pharmacy
Retail prices for medications can vary among pharmacies, even ones in the same neighborhood. It’s a good idea to check a few options before filling your prescription. GoodRx can help you compare prices at different pharmacies in your area.
Insurance coverage
If you have prescription insurance that covers adapalene, you may be responsible for a copay or coinsurance. This amount will likely be determined by your plan’s formulary (list of covered medications).
Checking your coverage details in advance can help you understand your potential out-of-pocket costs for adapalene. You can typically access your formulary and summary of benefits and coverage online or by calling the help desk number on your prescription insurance card.
Keep in mind that, in most cases, prescription insurance plans don’t cover OTC medications. So there’s a good chance your insurance will only cover prescription forms of Differin that aren’t available over the counter.
What to do if adapalene isn’t covered by your insurance
If your insurance doesn’t cover adapalene, try these options:
See if you can save through a medication discount program, such as GoodRx. (See below for details.)
Ask your plan to cover adapalene by submitting a formulary exception request. Your prescriber may need to provide a letter of medical necessity and other documentation explaining why the medication is required for your condition. If the formulary exception request is denied, file an appeal.
Ask your prescriber about switching to an adapalene alternative. There may be an option, such as tretinoin (Retin-A Micro, Atralin) or benzoyl peroxide (PanOxyl, Benzac AC), that’s covered by your insurance or costs less out of pocket.
Ways to save on adapalene
Here are two ways you may be able to save on the cost of adapalene.
1. Use a GoodRx coupon
GoodRx could help you save on the cost of adapalene without insurance. The chart below shows the lowest available prices for several adapalene products with a free GoodRx discount.
Keep in mind that, in order to use a GoodRx discount for OTC adapalene products, you’ll need a prescription from a healthcare professional. Make sure your prescriber specifies the OTC version to avoid confusion at the pharmacy.
Product | Average cash price | GoodRx price (as low as) |
|---|---|---|
Adapalene 0.3% gel pump, 45 g | ||
Adapalene 0.3% gel, 45 g | ||
Adapalene 0.1% cream, 45 g | ||
Adapalene 0.1% gel, 45 g | ||
OTC Differin gel 0.1%, 45 g |
To save with GoodRx:
Visit www.goodrx.com or download the app.
Search for “adapalene,” or “adapalene non prescription,” then click or tap “Start saving.”
Select your prescribed dose, dosage form, and quantity.
Choose if you want to receive the discount information by text or email. You can also take a screenshot on your phone.
To avoid delays, provide the discount information to the pharmacy before you go in to pick up your medication.
Keep in mind: GoodRx savings may vary by pharmacy and geographic location. The GoodRx website and app can help you compare prices in your area.
2. Tap into your HSA, FSA, or HRA
If you have a health savings account (HSA), a flexible spending account (FSA), or a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), you can use it to help cover your out-of-pocket costs for adapalene. These tax-advantaged health accounts let you pay for eligible expenses with tax-free dollars.
Pay directly with your HSA or FSA card at the pharmacy, or cover the cost yourself and submit a request for reimbursement. The funds in HSAs and HRAs typically roll over annually. But you usually have to use FSA dollars before a certain deadline or they’ll expire.
The bottom line
Adapalene (Differin, Differin OTC) is a topical retinoid that treats mild-to-moderate acne. The cost of adapalene without insurance can depend on what dosage form you’re prescribed, whether you choose a brand-name or generic product, and where you fill your prescription.
Choosing a generic adapalene product can help you save on the cost of your medication. A GoodRx discount could also reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Just remember that you’ll need a prescription in order to use GoodRx discounts on OTC adapalene products.
Why trust our experts?
References
Healthcare.gov. (n.d.). Appealing a health plan decision: Internal appeals.
