Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Leflunomide (Arava) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| 10mg Tablets Generic (30-day) | $20 – $60 | $5 – $15 |
| 20mg Tablets Generic (30-day) | $25 – $80 | $5 – $20 |
| Loading Dose 100mg (3 days) | $10 – $30 | $0 – $10 |
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 2 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
Leflunomide is a DMARD used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, either alone or in combination with methotrexate.
Both are effective DMARDs for RA. Leflunomide is an alternative for patients who cannot tolerate methotrexate. It is taken daily instead of weekly.
Liver function tests should be checked monthly for the first 6 months, then every 6 to 8 weeks. Leflunomide is teratogenic and requires a washout if pregnancy is planned.