Singulair Price: How Much Does Montelukast Really Cost?

If you’ve been prescribed Singulair for asthma or allergies, the first thing on your mind is likely the price tag. The cost can swing wildly depending on where you shop, whether you use the brand name or a generic version, and what kind of insurance coverage you have. Below we break down the main factors that shape the price you’ll actually pay, so you can avoid surprises at the pharmacy.

Brand vs. Generic: What’s the Difference?

Singulair is the brand name for the drug montelukast. A generic version contains the same active ingredient, works the same way, and is approved by regulators. In most markets the generic is 30‑70% cheaper than the brand. If your doctor’s prescription says “montelukast” instead of “Singulair,” you can safely ask the pharmacist for the generic version and save a good chunk of cash.

How Insurance and Pharmacy Benefits Influence the Cost

Insurance plans treat brand and generic drugs differently. Many plans place the generic on a lower co‑pay tier, meaning you might pay $5‑$10 instead of $30‑$50 for the brand. Check your pharmacy benefits manager’s formulary to see where montelukast sits. If the brand is listed as a “non‑preferred” drug, you could be hit with a higher co‑pay unless you get prior authorization.

Even with insurance, you might face a “donut hole” if you’re on a Medicare Part D plan. In that case, the price per pill can jump dramatically until you reach the catastrophic coverage threshold. Knowing where you are in the coverage cycle helps you plan purchases, especially if you need a 30‑day supply.

Many pharmacies offer discount cards or “safe‑saving” programs for brand‑name drugs. These programs can shave $10‑$20 off a 30‑day bottle of Singulair. It’s worth asking the pharmacist if any such program is available before you check out.

Online pharmacies often list lower list prices because they have lower overhead. However, you must verify that the site is licensed and requires a prescription. Reputable online stores will show the exact price per tablet, any shipping fees, and the total cost before you finalize the order.

Coupons from the manufacturer are another avenue to reduce out‑of‑pocket costs. The Singulair website frequently offers printable coupons that bring the price of a 30‑day supply down to around $15 for brand‑name users without insurance. Combine a coupon with a pharmacy discount card for maximum savings.

Finally, consider bulk buying if you have a stable prescription. Some pharmacies allow a 90‑day supply, which can cut the per‑day cost by 10‑15% compared to buying a 30‑day bottle each month. Just make sure your insurance or discount program covers the larger quantity.

Bottom line: The price you pay for Singulair isn’t set in stone. By choosing generic when possible, checking your insurance formulary, using coupons, and shopping at reputable online pharmacies, you can keep the cost well under the typical brand‑name price. Take a few minutes to compare options before you fill the script, and you’ll likely end up paying far less than you expect.