Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Omeprazole (Prilosec) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| OTC Omeprazole 20mg (42 tablets) | $8 – $25 | $8 – $25 |
| Prescription Omeprazole 20mg (30 caps) | $4 – $15 | $0 – $5 |
| Prescription Omeprazole 40mg (30 caps) | $4 – $20 | $0 – $10 |
| Brand Prilosec (30 tablets) | $20 – $40 | $10 – $20 |
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 or Tier 1 generic prescription
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
Prescription generic ($4-$15 with insurance) is usually cheaper than OTC ($8-$25). Ask your doctor for an Rx if you take it regularly.
Short-term use (2-8 weeks) is recommended. Long-term use should be monitored by your doctor due to potential risks (bone density, magnesium, B12 absorption).
Famotidine (Pepcid) is OTC at $5-$15 and doesn't have the long-term concerns of PPIs. For mild reflux, lifestyle changes and antacids may be sufficient.