Albendazole is a crucial antiparasitic drug used to treat various infections caused by tapeworms and other parasites. However, the cost and availability of a specific formulation, such as a 400mg oral syrup or suspension, can be complex and depends on several factors, most notably your geographic location.
US Availability and Cost of Albendazole
In the United States, patients seeking a liquid form of albendazole face a different situation than those in other parts of the world. A standard, commercially manufactured 400mg oral syrup for humans is not readily available. Instead, albendazole is typically prescribed and sold in 200mg oral tablets. For individuals, particularly children, who have difficulty swallowing tablets, a liquid suspension must be specially prepared by a compounding pharmacy.
The cost for this compounded version can be significantly higher than the off-the-shelf tablets. A key reason for the higher price is that it is a custom-made product, and insurance coverage for compounded medications is often limited or nonexistent. Consequently, patients may have to pay the full, out-of-pocket price. In contrast, generic albendazole 200mg tablets can be found for a fraction of the average retail price through various discount programs, with prices potentially as low as $24 for a typical dosage, and even lower with coupons from sites like GoodRx and SingleCare.
Factors Influencing Albendazole Cost in the US
Several factors contribute to the pricing dynamics of albendazole in the US:
- Low Market Volume: Albendazole treats rare parasitic infections in the US, meaning there is less overall demand compared to high-volume medications.
- Limited Generic Competition: Unlike common medications with many generic manufacturers, the market for generic albendazole is smaller, reducing the competitive pressure that would normally lower prices.
- Brand vs. Generic: The brand-name version, Albenza, is significantly more expensive than its generic counterpart.
- Insurance Coverage and Pharmacy Choice: Your out-of-pocket cost is heavily dependent on your insurance plan and which pharmacy you use. Without insurance, prices can be prohibitively high, but coupons offer significant savings.
International Pricing: A Different Story
In many countries, particularly those where parasitic infections are more common, commercially produced 400mg oral suspensions are widely and affordably available. For example, in India, brand names like Zentel and Albendawin offer 10ml bottles of 400mg oral suspension at a very low cost, often less than ₹20-₹25 (equivalent to a few US dollars). This stark contrast highlights how regional market demand, manufacturing scale, and regulatory frameworks influence medication pricing.
How to Save Money on Albendazole
If you are in the US and need albendazole, there are several ways to manage the cost:
- Use Prescription Discount Programs: Websites like GoodRx, SingleCare, and WellRx offer free coupons that can dramatically reduce the price of generic albendazole tablets at various pharmacies.
- Compare Pharmacy Prices: Even with a coupon, prices can vary between pharmacies like CVS, Walmart, Walgreens, and Costco. Shopping around is recommended.
- Talk to Your Doctor: Discussing your concerns with your doctor can help you find the most cost-effective treatment. They may also provide information about alternatives or patient assistance programs, if available.
- Consider Generic: Always opt for the generic version (albendazole) over the brand name (Albenza) to ensure substantial savings.
Comparison of Albendazole Formulations and Pricing
| Feature | Generic Tablets (US) | Compounded Syrup (US) | Oral Suspension (International) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Widely available via prescription. | Custom-prepared by compounding pharmacy. | Widely available in many countries (e.g., India). |
| Price | Highly variable, but coupon programs offer significant discounts (e.g., $24-$40+ for a standard dose). | Generally expensive due to custom preparation. Cost depends on pharmacy and prescription. | Inexpensive, often equivalent to just a few US dollars for a 400mg dose. |
| Insurance Coverage | Often covered by insurance, and discounts can lower costs further. | Less likely to be covered by insurance. | Typically not applicable for US insurance, intended for local markets. |
| Typical Dose | Two 200mg tablets for a 400mg dose. | Custom concentration and dose per patient needs. | A single bottle or dose of 400mg/10ml. |
Conclusion
The question, "what is the price of albendazole 400 syrup?" reveals a significant international market and formulation difference. While an affordable, mass-produced 400mg oral suspension is common in countries like India, it is not sold commercially in the US for human use. US patients either take the generic 200mg tablets or seek a much more expensive, custom-compounded liquid suspension from a specialty pharmacy. To find the best price on albendazole tablets in the US, utilizing prescription discount cards and comparing pharmacy prices is highly recommended.
For further information on drug costs and savings, you can visit GoodRx.
