Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Acyclovir (Zovirax) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| 400mg Tablets (30-day suppressive) | $10 – $40 | $0 – $15 |
| 800mg Tablets (7-day shingles) | $15 – $50 | $0 – $20 |
| 5% Topical Cream (5g) | $20 – $80 | $5 – $20 |
| 200mg Capsules (10-day) | $10 – $35 | $0 – $15 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Covered as Tier 1 generic on most plans
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Generic acyclovir is very affordable at $10 to $50 for most oral courses. The topical cream is more expensive at $20 to $80.
Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is a prodrug that converts to acyclovir in the body. Valacyclovir has better absorption so it requires fewer daily doses.
Acyclovir treats herpes simplex (cold sores, genital herpes), shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox.