FAQs about migraine financial assistance

How much does migraine treatment cost?

Your prescriber may recommend a preventive medication such as Aimovig. Without insurance, one 1 mL of 140 mg/mL pen of Aimovig costs around $1,040 per month. With a SingleCare coupon, you can pay the discounted price of $753. 

You may also be prescribed an abortive medication, such as Nurtec, which treats symptoms after they start. Without insurance, Nurtec costs around $1367 per box of 8 tablets. With a SingleCare coupon, you can pay the discounted price of $870. 

Your exact costs will depend on your insurance, copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. Speak with your insurance plan or reference your plan’s formulary for more specific pricing. 

Why is migraine medicine so expensive?

CGRP inhibitors, such as Aimovig and Ajovy, are the first drug class specifically developed to treat migraines. They are now considered first-line therapy and have proven to be very effective at preventing migraines with a 50% reduction in headache days per month and fewer side effects than older classes of drugs, according to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain.

While they are very efficacious, they are also the most expensive medications. Both cost $1,000+ without insurance. They are too new to have generics available, and many require a monthly self-injection. 

Older medications used to treat migraines have generic versions available, which can lower costs. A few examples include topiramate ($8 with SingleCare), propranolol ($8 with SingleCare), and divalproex sodium ($19 with SingleCare).

Can you qualify for disability due to migraines?

If migraines significantly impair your ability to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance. You may qualify for monthly payments and enrollment in Medicare. The process will require documentation to show that you are unable to work, have a debilitating medical condition, and demonstrate your level of impairment, according to the American Migraine Foundation. You can apply online or by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. 

Those with migraines are also protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). These laws protect your rights in the workplace. You can learn more by visiting the U.S. Department of Labor website. 

Which organizations provide financial assistance for migraine treatment?

If you are having trouble affording your medications, there are programs that provide financial aid. Visit the National Headache Foundation for more information about financial assistance and other ways to save on your migraine medications. Eligibility requirements may apply. 

If you are ineligible for these financial assistance programs, you can always use SingleCare to save on your prescription.

Can I use SingleCare to save on over-the-counter migraine medicine?

Yes, with a valid prescription from a healthcare provider, you can save on over-the-counter migraine medications by using a SingleCare coupon. Your provider may recommend the occasional use of OTC meds such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, Excedrin Migraine, and naproxen. Keep in mind that use should be limited to prevent rebound migraines. Also, be sure to ask your pharmacist about drug interactions with other medications you take.