Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Olanzapine Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Olanzapine 5mg (generic) | $10 – $20 | $2 – $8 |
| Olanzapine 10mg (generic) | $10 – $30 | $3 – $10 |
| Olanzapine 20mg (generic) | $15 – $40 | $5 – $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 1-2 generic — atypical antipsychotic; highly effective but significant metabolic side effects
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 olanzapine costs $10 to $40 per month without insurance. It is much cheaper than the brand Zyprexa, which can cost over $600 per month.
Yes, olanzapine is associated with the most weight gain among atypical antipsychotics, with average gains of 5-10 kg. It also increases risk of diabetes and high cholesterol.
Olanzapine (Zyprexa) is used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is also used in combination with fluoxetine (as Symbyax) for treatment-resistant depression and bipolar depression.