Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Vitamin B12 Supplement Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| 1000mcg Tablets (100 count) | $5 – $12 | $5 – $12 |
| Sublingual 2500mcg (60 count) | $8 – $18 | $8 – $18 |
| B12 Injection (cyanocobalamin, per vial) | $10 – $30 | $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: OTC supplement not covered; B12 injections may be covered for deficiency
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
OTC B12 supplements cost $5 to $18. B12 injections for deficiency cost $10 to $30 per vial and may be covered by insurance with a diagnosis.
Vegans/vegetarians, adults over 50, people with pernicious anemia, and those taking metformin or acid reducers are at higher risk of B12 deficiency.
For most people, high-dose oral B12 is as effective as injections. Injections are preferred for severe deficiency or absorption problems.