Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Xeljanz 5mg Tablets | $4,800 – $5,500 | $300 – $1,400 |
| Xeljanz XR 11mg | $4,800 – $5,500 | $300 – $1,400 |
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: Specialty tier — oral JAK inhibitor; prior authorization and step therapy required
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
Xeljanz costs $4,800 to $5,500 per month without insurance. Copay assistance programs are available for eligible patients.
Xeljanz treats rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Xeljanz carries a boxed warning for increased risk of serious infections, blood clots, and cardiovascular events. Discuss risks with your doctor.