Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Otezla (Apremilast) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Otezla Starter Pack | $3,500 – $4,200 | $200 – $1,000 |
| Otezla 30mg Maintenance | $3,500 – $4,200 | $200 – $1,000 |
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: Specialty tier — oral medication; prior authorization may be required
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
Otezla costs $3,500 to $4,200 per month without insurance. It is an oral tablet, so no injection is required.
No, Otezla is a PDE4 inhibitor, not a biologic. It is taken orally and works differently than injectable biologics.
Yes, the Otezla Patient Savings Program may reduce costs to $0 per month for eligible commercially insured patients.