Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Azithromycin (Z-Pack) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Z-Pack (6 tablets) | $8 – $25 | $0 – $10 |
| Azithromycin 500mg (3 tablets) | $8 – $20 | $0 – $10 |
| Azithromycin Liquid (pediatric) | $10 – $30 | $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: Tier 1 generic — $0-$15 copay
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
$8-$25 with GoodRx. Some pharmacies offer free antibiotics including azithromycin (Publix, Meijer).
Yes — Z-Pack is the brand name for a 5-day azithromycin course (500mg day 1, then 250mg days 2-5). Generic is the same medication.
Yes, through telehealth services ($20-$75 for consultation) that can send a prescription to your pharmacy. No in-person visit needed for most infections.