How much is Qvar Redihaler without insurance?

In this article:

• Cost without insurance
• Lower-cost alternatives
• Compare prices
• Qvar RediHaler costs by dose
• Generic availability
• Insurance coverage
• How to save

In this article

• Cost without insurance
• Lower-cost alternatives
• Compare prices
• Qvar RediHaler costs by dose
• Generic availability
• Insurance coverage
• How to save

Qvar RediHaler is a brand-name prescription inhaler for the maintenance treatment of asthma. The active ingredient is an inhaled corticosteroid called beclomethasone dipropionate. There is no exact generic or over-the-counter version of Qvar RediHaler. If you don’t have insurance that covers it, there are several ways to save.  

Related: Qvar RediHaler side effects

How much does Qvar RediHaler cost without insurance?

The average Qvar RediHaler cost without insurance is about $413 for one 10.6 g, 80 mcg/actuation inhaler containing 120 inhalations. The 40 mcg strength may cost less. At one inhalation twice daily, one inhaler provides a 60-day supply. At that rate, a year of treatment would cost about $2,500 at the average retail price. For people who are prescribed higher doses, for example, two puffs twice daily, one inhaler will last a shorter time, making the yearly cost go up.

What are some lower-cost alternatives to Qvar RediHaler? 

Although there is no exact generic version of Qvar RediHaler, people without insurance can ask their healthcare provider whether a lower-cost inhaled corticosteroid may be appropriate. Options include generic fluticasone proportionate HFA and generic beclomethasone HFA. These medications are not interchangeable with Qvar RediHaler and may differ in their inhaler devices, dosing, and suitability for individual patients. 

Another option for some people with asthma is a combination inhaler containing an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta agonist (LABA). Examples include Advair Diskus (fluticasone-salmeterol), Symbicort (budesonide-formoterol), and Breo Ellipta (fluticasone-vilanterol). Some combination inhalers are available in generic versions and may cost less, but the prescriber should determine whether a combination treatment is appropriate. 

RELATED: Qvar RediHaler alternatives: What can I take instead of Qvar RediHaler?

Qvar RediHaler costs by dose

Both the inhaler strength and the prescribed dosage can affect the Qvar RediHaler cost. Qvar RediHaler comes in two strengths, 40 mcg and 80 mcg per actuation (puff). Children ages 4 to 11 typically start at 40 mcg twice daily, while the starting dosage for people ages 12 and older is 40 to 80 mcg twice daily, but also depends on their previous asthma treatment and disease severity.

If the starting dosage does not adequately control asthma, the dosage may be increased. For people ages 12 and older, the maximum recommended dosage is 320 mcg twice daily, which equals four inhalations of the 80 mcg inhaler per dose. At that dosage, a 120-inhalation Qvar RediHaler lasts about 15 days, requiring about two inhalers per month. The highest dosage will require at least two Qvar inhalers per month. 

What is the generic name for Qvar RediHaler?

The active ingredient in Qvar RediHaler is beclomethasone dipropionate. However, there is currently no exact generic equivalent of the Qvar RediHaler breath-actuated inhaler. Based on existing patents, a generic version of Qvar RediHaler is estimated to become available around 2041, although that timing could change.

Until then, patients may be able to use a generic beclomethasone dipropionate HFA inhaler, which contains the same active ingredient as Qvar RediHaler. However, it is not an exact generic equivalent of Qvar RediHaler. The products differ in their inhaler design and other features. Qvar RediHaler uses a breath-actuated inhaler, while the generic uses a press-and-breathe metered-dose inhaler. Talk to the prescriber before switching inhalers. 

Is Qvar RediHaler covered by insurance?

Qvar RediHaler is covered by many health insurance plans and some Medicare drug plans, but coverage varies by plan. Plans may also impose restrictions, such as quantity limits, prior authorization, or step therapy. Depending on the plan, Qvar RediHaler may be placed on a higher formulary tier, which can increase the amount a patient pays. The final out-of-pocket cost will also depend on factors such as the plan’s deductible, copay, or coinsurance. 

How to get Qvar RediHaler without insurance

There are several ways to lower the cost of Qvar RediHaler without insurance. Although the manufacturer’s current website does not list a Qvar manufacturer coupon, other options include using a SingleCare prescription discount card, comparing pharmacy prices, and checking eligibility for government healthcare programs. 

1. Use a SingleCare coupon

SingleCare is free to use and available to everyone. Registered members can save even more, and it’s fast and free to sign up. A Qvar RediHaler coupon from SingleCare can lower the price from an average of about $413 to as little as $300 per inhaler, a savings of about $113. Depending on how often the prescription is filled, savings could add up to around $700 or more per year. 

Prices vary among participating pharmacies, so compare current discounts and nearby pharmacies on SingleCare’s Qvar RediHaler coupon page or by using the SingleCare app.

2. Ask a healthcare professional about other inhaled corticosteroids

Ask the prescribing healthcare provider whether switching to a lower-cost asthma inhaler may be appropriate. Depending on your treatment needs, another inhaled corticosteroid or a different type of inhaler may cost less. Do not switch inhalers without guidance from a healthcare professional. 

3. Check eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP 

If you meet the eligibility requirements, Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) may help reduce prescription and other healthcare costs. Eligibility, coverage, and out-of-pocket costs vary by state, so check your state Medicaid or CHIP program for details. 

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