Key takeaways:
Liothyronine is a prescription-only medication that treats hypothyroidism and some other thyroid-related conditions. It’s available as a lower-cost generic and as the brand-name medication Cytomel.
Without insurance, 90 tablets of liothyronine 5 mcg cost an average of $53.68.
Using a free GoodRx coupon, signing up for GoodRx Companion, or filling a 90-day supply may help lower your costs.
Save on related medications
Liothyronine is a prescription-only thyroid hormone medication. It’s the generic version of brand-name Cytomel, and it’s used most often to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Liothyronine replaces T3 — the “active” form of thyroid hormone in the body.
Without insurance, the price of liothyronine can vary based on several factors. The good news is that there are ways to potentially save on your prescription. Here’s what you should know about liothyronine costs and how to lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
How much does liothyronine cost without insurance?
Without insurance, 90 tablets of liothyronine 5 mcg cost $53.68 on average. The exact cost of your prescription may depend on your dosage, fill quantity, and pharmacy.
The chart below shows average cash prices for common liothyronine doses.
What factors affect the cost of liothyronine?
Several factors can influence how much you pay for liothyronine.
Brand-name vs. generic availability
Generic liothyronine often costs less than brand-name Cytomel, but not always. Compare prices for both options to see which one may cost you less.
Dosage and quantity
Your prescribed dose and how many tablets you receive each month will affect how much you pay. A higher daily dose, or a larger monthly quantity, can raise your total costs.
Location
Where you live can affect what you pay for your medication. GoodRx research on prescription medication costs by city shows that cash prices vary across the country. For example, medications are typically more affordable in Denver than in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Pharmacy
Pharmacies set their own prices, so the cost of your liothyronine prescription may differ from one location to another. Before filling your prescription, compare prices with a tool such as the GoodRx app to find the best deal.
Insurance coverage
If you have insurance, it may help save on the cost of liothyronine. But you may still have out-of-pocket expenses such as copays or coinsurance. Your costs may be lower if liothyronine is listed on a lower tier of your plan’s formulary (list of covered medications). You can check coverage details in your plan’s summary of benefits and coverage or by calling the member services number on your insurance card.
What to do if liothyronine isn't covered by your insurance
If your insurance doesn't cover liothyronine, try these options:
Ask your prescriber to submit a letter of medical necessity or request a formulary exception on your behalf. If the request is denied, you can appeal the decision.
Look into other savings options, such as GoodRx discounts.
During your next open enrollment period, look for a plan that offers better coverage for liothyronine and any other medications you may take.
Ways to save on liothyronine
There are ways to save on liothyronine, which is available as both a brand-name and generic medication. Here are five strategies to consider.
1. Use a GoodRx coupon
A free GoodRx discount may help lower the cost of generic liothyronine at certain pharmacies. The chart below shows GoodRx prices for common doses.
Dose, quantity, and form | Generic liothyronine GoodRx price |
|---|---|
5 mcg (30 tablets) | |
5 mcg (90 tablets) | |
25 mcg (30 tablets) | |
50 mcg (30 tablets) |
Here’s how to save with a coupon:
Visit www.goodrx.com, or open the GoodRx app on your mobile device.
Type “liothyronine” into the search field.
Click “Start saving,” or press return.
Choose the correct quantity, dose, and form. Then, enter your location.
Choose to receive your coupon via text or email, or print it out.
Show the coupon at the pharmacy when you pick up your medication. Or present the coupon to your pharmacy staff before they fill your prescription to prevent delays at the pickup counter.
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. Look into GoodRx Companion
Another option to consider is signing up for GoodRx Companion — especially if you take multiple medications. You can access discounted prescription medications with a GoodRx Companion subscription. Over 200 medications are available for free, with hundreds more for under $10.
The program also includes benefits to help you cut your self-pay costs, such as lower prices for online care visits and discounts on dental care and other health services.
3. Check if you’re eligible for a patient assistance program
If you’re taking brand-name Cytomel and you’re uninsured or have government-funded insurance, you may qualify for help through Pfizer RxPathways. Eligibility generally depends on your insurance status, household income, and other factors.
You can check your eligibility online, or you can call 1-866-706-2400 for assistance.
4. Ask about 90-day supplies
If you’re taking liothyronine long term and your dose is stable, ask whether a 90-day prescription makes sense for you. Filling 90-day supplies can lower your monthly costs and cut down on trips to the pharmacy.
5. Tap into your HSA, FSA, or HRA
If you have a health savings account (HSA), flexible spending account (FSA), or health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), consider using those funds to pay for liothyronine. These accounts allow you to play for eligible healthcare costs with pretax dollars.
HSA funds roll over from year to year. But you will likely need to use FSA funds by the end of the plan year, unless your employer offers an FSA grace period. How long HRA funds can be used depends on the employer.
The bottom line
Liothyronine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication that treats hypothyroidism and some other thyroid-related conditions. It comes as both a generic medication and brand-name Cytomel. Without insurance, 90 tablets of liothyronine 5 mcg cost $53.68 on average. Your exact costs may depend on your prescribed dose and quantity, your pharmacy, and other factors.
Savings options such as using free GoodRx coupons, signing up for GoodRx Companion, or opting for 90-day fills may help lower what you pay.
Why trust our experts?
References
Pfizer RxPathways. (n.d.). For patients.
