Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Permethrin (Elimite/Nix Rx) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Permethrin 5% Cream (60g, scabies) | $8 – $25 | $0 – $10 |
| Permethrin 1% Rinse (OTC, lice) | $8 – $15 | $0 – $8 |
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 generic — covered for scabies and lice treatment
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
Permethrin 5% cream costs $8 to $25 without insurance. The 1% OTC rinse for lice costs $8 to $15.
Permethrin 1% is for head lice treatment and is available OTC. The 5% cream is prescription-strength and is used to treat scabies.
Apply 5% cream from the neck down to all skin surfaces, leave on for 8 to 14 hours, then wash off. Treatment may need to be repeated after 1 to 2 weeks.