Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Amitriptyline (Elavil) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Amitriptyline 10mg Tablet | $4 – $8 | $0 – $3 |
| Amitriptyline 25mg Tablet | $4 – $10 | $0 – $5 |
| Amitriptyline 50mg Tablet | $4 – $15 | $0 – $5 |
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: Tier 1 generic — widely covered; used off-label for migraines, pain, and insomnia
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
Amitriptyline costs $4 to $15 for a 30-day supply without insurance. It is one of the least expensive prescription medications available.
Amitriptyline is widely used off-label for migraine prevention, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, insomnia, and interstitial cystitis. Low doses (10-25mg) are typically used for these conditions.
Yes, weight gain is a common side effect of amitriptyline due to increased appetite and metabolic changes. This effect is more pronounced at higher doses used for depression.