Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Cortisone Shot (Corticosteroid Injection) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Injection (Knee, Shoulder) | $150 – $400 | $30 – $100 |
| Trigger Point Injection | $100 – $300 | $20 – $75 |
| Tendon Sheath Injection | $150 – $400 | $30 – $100 |
| Ultrasound-Guided Injection | $250 – $600 | $50 – $150 |
CPT/ADA Code: 20610
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: Medically necessary — covered for joint and soft tissue inflammation
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
A cortisone shot costs $100 to $500 without insurance. Ultrasound-guided injections cost more due to imaging fees.
Pain relief from a cortisone shot typically lasts 1-3 months. Some patients experience relief for 6 months or longer.
Most doctors limit cortisone injections to 3-4 per joint per year to minimize cartilage damage and other side effects.