Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Simvastatin Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Simvastatin 10mg (generic) | $4 – $10 | $0 – $4 |
| Simvastatin 20mg (generic) | $4 – $12 | $0 – $5 |
| Simvastatin 40mg (generic) | $4 – $15 | $0 – $6 |
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 — one of the most affordable statins; dose limitations at 80mg
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 simvastatin costs $4 to $15 per month without insurance. It is one of the cheapest statins available and is on nearly all $4 generic lists.
The FDA warns against starting patients on simvastatin 80mg due to increased risk of muscle damage (myopathy). Patients already tolerating 80mg for 12+ months may continue, but new patients should use a different statin.
Yes, simvastatin should be taken in the evening because the liver produces most cholesterol at night. This timing maximizes the drug's effectiveness since simvastatin has a short half-life.