Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Melatonin (Prescription/Hetlioz) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| OTC Melatonin Supplements (30-day) | $5 – $15 | $5 – $15 |
| Prescription Melatonin (compounded) | $20 – $60 | $5 – $20 |
| Tasimelteon (Hetlioz) 20mg (30-day) | $1,500 – $3,000 | $100 – $300 |
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: OTC melatonin not covered; Hetlioz specialty tier with prior auth
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
No, standard melatonin supplements are available OTC. Prescription melatonin receptor agonists like Hetlioz are used for specific sleep-wake disorders.
Hetlioz (tasimelteon) costs $1,500 to $3,000/month and is prescribed for non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder in blind individuals.
Most adults benefit from 0.5mg to 5mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Higher doses are not necessarily more effective.