Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Tamoxifen 20mg Tablet | $10 – $30 | $0 – $10 |
| Tamoxifen 10mg Tablet | $10 – $25 | $0 – $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 — covered for breast cancer treatment and prevention
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 tamoxifen costs $10 to $40 for a 30-day supply without insurance. It is one of the most affordable cancer treatment medications available.
Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to treat and prevent estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. It is typically taken for 5 to 10 years.
Common side effects include hot flashes, nausea, fatigue, and vaginal dryness. Serious but rare risks include blood clots and endometrial cancer.