Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Sulfasalazine 500mg Tablet | $10 – $25 | $0 – $8 |
| Sulfasalazine DR 500mg Tablet (Azulfidine EN) | $15 – $40 | $3 – $10 |
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 covered; used for both GI and rheumatic conditions
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
Sulfasalazine costs between $10 and $40 for a 30-day supply without insurance. It is available as an affordable generic medication.
Sulfasalazine is used to treat ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis. It has both anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
Common side effects include nausea, headache, loss of appetite, and skin rash. Regular blood tests are recommended to monitor for rare but serious blood disorders.