Antidepressant cost: how to pay less for Zoloft, Lexapro and more

Common antidepressants

NIMH says commonly prescribed antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs and NDRIs, and that these have fewer side effects than older antidepressants such as tricyclics and MAOIs (NIMH). Generic names to look up when you compare prices:

• Sertraline (Zoloft), an SSRI (MedlinePlus).
• Escitalopram (Lexapro), an SSRI (MedlinePlus).
• Bupropion (Wellbutrin) (MedlinePlus).

Check the exact strength and form on your label, such as tablet, capsule or extended-release, since prices can differ between them.

Brand vs. generic

The FDA says approved generics work the same way as the brand and usually cost less (FDA). Medicare.gov suggests asking your doctor whether you can take a generic or a lower-cost brand-name drug (Medicare.gov). Ask your pharmacist whether a generic of your medicine is available and what it costs on your plan.

Give it time, and don’t stop abruptly

• NIMH says antidepressants usually take 4 to 8 weeks to work, and that sleep, appetite and energy often improve before mood does (NIMH). Before you switch to save money, ask your doctor whether a cheaper option makes sense.
• Common side effects such as upset stomach or headache are usually mild and often go away with time (NIMH).
• NIMH notes that children, teens and young adults under 25 may have more suicidal thoughts in the first weeks or after a dose change, and people of all ages should be watched closely early in treatment (NIMH).

If you have Medicare

• Medicare drug plans must include most drugs in certain protected classes, including antidepressants. If no drug on your plan’s list works for you, you or your prescriber can ask for an exception (Medicare.gov).
• Many plans put most generics on their lowest-cost tier (Medicare.gov).
• Out-of-pocket costs for covered Part D drugs are capped at $2,100 in 2026 and $2,400 in 2027 (Medicare.gov).
• Extra Help caps 2027 prescriptions at up to $5.80 for each generic and $14.40 for each brand-name drug for people who qualify (Medicare.gov). You can apply through Social Security.
• Medicare also covers outpatient mental health care, such as counseling (Medicare.gov). During open enrollment, check that next year’s plan covers your medicine. See our Medicare open enrollment guide.

If you’re uninsured or underinsured

• All Marketplace plans cover mental health services as essential health benefits and can’t deny you or charge more for a pre-existing mental health condition (HealthCare.gov).
• Illinois open enrollment for 2027 plans runs November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027 at Get Covered Illinois.
• HRSA-funded health centers offer care on a sliding fee based on income. Find one near you.
• Compare a discount card price with your copay. See how discount cards work.
• Buying online? The FDA says to use only state-licensed pharmacies that require a prescription (FDA BeSafeRx).

More ways to save: prescriptions without insurance and our prescriptions hub.