Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim (Bactrim) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| SMX-TMP SS 400/80mg (generic) | $4 – $10 | $0 – $4 |
| SMX-TMP DS 800/160mg (generic) | $4 – $12 | $0 – $5 |
| SMX-TMP Suspension (generic) | $6 – $15 | $1 – $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 — widely used for UTIs, skin infections, and MRSA
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 sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim costs $4 to $15 for a typical course without insurance. It is one of the most affordable antibiotics and is available on virtually every $4 generic list.
Bactrim treats urinary tract infections, community-acquired MRSA skin infections, ear infections, traveler's diarrhea, and pneumocystis pneumonia prevention in immunocompromised patients.
Patients with sulfa allergies, severe kidney or liver disease, folate deficiency, or who are in late pregnancy should avoid Bactrim. It can also interact with warfarin and certain other medications.