Ertugliflozin is a prescription medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. Its cost is a primary consideration for many patients, and the final price can be influenced by several factors, including insurance, dosage, and available savings programs. While the drug can be expensive without coverage, multiple avenues exist to help make it more affordable.
Ertugliflozin costs without insurance
Without health insurance, the cost of Ertugliflozin (Steglatro) can be substantial. A 30-tablet supply typically costs between $350 and $470 at retail price, depending on the pharmacy and dosage strength (5mg or 15mg). For example, a GoodRx coupon can lower the price to approximately $350. Combination products containing Ertugliflozin, such as Steglujan (Ertugliflozin with Sitagliptin), will have different, often higher, costs.
Factors affecting cash price
- Pharmacy location: Prices can differ based on the pharmacy chain. Discount cards can help secure a more consistent, lower price across participating pharmacies.
- Dosage: While prices can be similar for different strengths (e.g., 5mg and 15mg), they are not always identical, and some pharmacies may charge slightly more for higher dosages.
- Discounts: Using free prescription discount cards or coupons from websites like GoodRx, WellRx, and BuzzRx can significantly reduce the cash price.
Understanding insurance coverage
For patients with health insurance, the out-of-pocket cost is determined by the specific plan's formulary, deductible, copay, and coinsurance requirements. For those with private or commercial insurance, Merck, the manufacturer of Steglatro, offers a copayment assistance program.
Important insurance considerations
- Private/commercial insurance: For eligible, privately insured patients, a manufacturer's copay card can bring the monthly cost down significantly, in some cases to as little as $0 per month for a limited time. Without such assistance, out-of-pocket costs can range from $20 to $70 per month.
- Prior authorization: Many insurance plans, including some managed Medicaid plans, require a prior authorization from a doctor before they will cover Steglatro. Without this, the patient may have to pay the full cash price.
- Medicare: Medicare prescription drug plans (Part D) generally do not cover Steglatro. This is a critical point for Medicare beneficiaries, who would likely have to rely on discount programs or other forms of assistance.
- Mail-order pharmacies: Some insurance plans offer lower prices for prescriptions filled through their mail-order pharmacy. This can also provide the convenience of receiving a 90-day supply, which may further reduce costs.
Cost-saving strategies for Ertugliflozin
Even with a high retail price, there are several ways for patients to reduce their expenses for Ertugliflozin:
- Manufacturer coupons and savings cards: The manufacturer, Merck, offers a program to help privately insured patients with their copayment. It is important to check the terms for eligibility and maximum savings.
- Patient assistance programs (PAPs): Sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, these programs offer free or discounted medications to low-income, uninsured, or underinsured individuals who meet specific criteria. While one search result from 2024 indicated no manufacturer PAP for Steglatro, it's always best to check the manufacturer's website or resources like NeedyMeds and the Medicine Assistance Tool for the most up-to-date information.
- Prescription discount cards: Free cards from services like GoodRx, WellRx, and BuzzRx can reduce the cash price significantly. These can be used by anyone, regardless of insurance status.
- Switching pharmacies: Comparing prices at different pharmacies is a simple but effective way to find the lowest cost. Websites and apps for discount cards often provide pricing comparisons.
How Ertugliflozin compares to other SGLT2 inhibitors
Ertugliflozin is part of the SGLT2 inhibitor drug class, which also includes other common medications like Jardiance, Farxiga, and Invokana. Comparative costs can be a deciding factor for both physicians and patients.
| Medication (Brand Name) | Active Ingredient | Average Cost (30-day supply) with Discount Card | Typical Out-of-Pocket (Insured, with coupons) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steglatro | Ertugliflozin | ~$350.19 | $20 - $70 | One of the most competitively priced SGLT2 inhibitors. |
| Jardiance | Empagliflozin | ~$616.50 | $20 - $60 | Significantly higher cash price than Steglatro. |
| Farxiga | Dapagliflozin | ~$288.00 (with GoodRx coupon) | $25 - $65 | Can sometimes be less expensive with discounts. |
| Invokana | Canagliflozin | $250 - $290 (WAC, approx. per month) | $30 - $70 | Price can vary based on dosage and pharmacy. |
It is important to note that while some competitors might have slightly higher average cash prices, access to coupons and manufacturer programs can make the final cost very competitive. A comparison published in July 2025 noted Ertugliflozin was a particularly cost-effective option within its class for cash payers.
Conclusion
For individuals with type 2 diabetes, the cost of Ertugliflozin is a major factor in treatment adherence. Without insurance, a 30-day supply can be hundreds of dollars, but this price can be reduced significantly by using prescription discount cards. For those with private insurance, manufacturer copay cards and assistance programs can further lower expenses. However, patients with Medicare Part D should be aware that Steglatro is often not covered, necessitating the use of discount cards or other strategies. Overall, when considering the question, "How much does Ertugliflozin cost?", the answer depends heavily on the patient's insurance status and their proactive use of available savings programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
For more clinical details on the drug, refer to this NIH overview on Ertugliflozin.
