Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Rivastigmine (Exelon) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5-6mg Capsules Generic (30-day) | $15 – $50 | $0 – $15 |
| Transdermal Patch 4.6mg/24hr (30 patches) | $40 – $150 | $10 – $30 |
| Transdermal Patch 9.5mg/24hr (30 patches) | $50 – $200 | $10 – $40 |
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: Oral generic Tier 1-2; patch generic Tier 2; brand patch Tier 3
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
Rivastigmine treats mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease dementia. It is the only cholinesterase inhibitor approved for both.
The rivastigmine patch causes fewer GI side effects (nausea, vomiting) than the capsules and provides more consistent drug levels.
Generic capsules cost $15 to $50/month. Generic patches cost $40 to $200/month.