Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Glipizide Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Glipizide 5mg (generic) | $4 – $10 | $0 – $4 |
| Glipizide 10mg (generic) | $4 – $12 | $0 – $5 |
| Glipizide ER 5mg (generic) | $4 – $15 | $0 – $6 |
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 — sulfonylurea widely available on $4 programs
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 glipizide costs $4 to $15 per month without insurance. It is one of the most affordable diabetes medications and is available at nearly every $4 generic program.
Glipizide is a sulfonylurea that stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin. It is effective at lowering blood sugar but carries a risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Yes, glipizide remains widely prescribed due to its low cost and effectiveness. However, newer medications like SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists offer additional cardiovascular and kidney benefits.