$277 for ONE tube of NSAID Gel? Really?

My doc allows NSAIDs eventually, and since I have arthritis and am planning to avoid putting anything in that new tummy that might rebel, I asked for some NSAID gel.  Increases risk of bleed, like any NSAID, but it won't be disolving in my stomach!

Anyway, I was looking up the name of it (I'd had it before), and found the website for the brand, and noticed a $20 off my copay coupon.  Great!  

So, the get is a $40 copay for me, minus $20 for the coupon, so $20.  The pharmacy aide and I had been chatting about coupons and the cost of drugs, and as she's ringing me up, she says, "Wow, $20 is really good. Without insurance this costs $277!"  I couldn't believe it.

If you are thinking about NSAID gel, make sure your plan covers it -- and find out the brand name, and go to  their website to see if you can save some $$$.

Hi MuttLover,

good to know........thanks for the info.

SIncerely,

Rita

There are several kinds of these. I use voltaren which is about 30 bucks,  others are more expensive, Costco pharmacy is cheaper. Diane

I have RA and stock up on Voltaren when I'm in Canada. It's only $13.00 and over the counter. I do take Celebrex which is about as mild as you can get on the Rx side. I was allowed it about 4 weeks after surgery. No problems and I'm 7 months out. 

Wow!! Thank you thank you thank you!! I was in tears before my Rheumatologist yesterday because I too have arthritis and I am flaring up because I'm not yet cleared for NSAIDs. I will get her to prescribe the NSAID gel! This OH forum is a life saver... It  rocks!!!!

Why the gel?  The risk for ulceration has to do with what the NSAID does to your body (it reduces the mucus lining) and that occurs whether you take a pill, get a shot, or use gel.  It's all the same and has nothing to do with where the medication is absorbed.