In beginning my journey into this whole world of IVF I was first given one of my first decisions,
choose a pharmacy from which to get my meds.
For those of you that may not be aware, IVF meds are usually quoted as being anywhere from $2000 - $5000 per cycle if you're paying out of pocket.
Of course for those ladies who have been in it long enough they know the tricks of the trade and there are definitely ways some use to get their necessary drugs much cheaper.
Walking out of our new clinic I was handed pamphlets for 4 different pharmacies.
Each one claims to offer the lowest most competitive price, great service, free delivery and nurse support.
The deciding factor for me was going to be price.
Immediately I made it my goal to try to find all the things I needed for my cycle and keep it under $2000.
I spent a full morning calling all the available pharmacies and won't you know the one a few blocks from my house turned out to be the cheapest of the lot.
I wanted to make a post for any ladies out there that may want an idea of comparisons between pharmacies, if you're making your budget for your first cycle this could come in handy.
Or just for basic knowledge of those wondering just how much the medications could run you.
Please note the drugs I looked into were ones for my cycle only, there are other medications used for IVF but I didn't get a comprehensive price list from each pharmacy as I only needed to know what my medication would cost.
Vi.llage Pharmacy
Bravelle ..........................................75iu $55/vial
Progesterone.....................................$49/vial
Lurpon..............................................$99/compounded 2wk kit
Gonal F.............................................$114.25
M.D.R.
Bravelle.............................................75iu $55.97/vial
Progesterone......................................$39.87/vial (sesame oil), $49.83/vial (ethyl oleate)
Lurpon...............................................$129.00 compounded 2wk kit
Gonal F..............................................75iu $133.97
Fre.edom
Bravelle..............................................75iu $56/vial
Progesterone.......................................$35.90/vial (sesame oil), $45.00/vial (ethyl oleate)
Lupron................................................$129 non-compounded 2wk kit
Gonal F...............................................75iu $69.50
South.Miami
Bravelle..............................................75iu $56
Progesterone.......................................$42.89/vial (seasme oil)
Lupron................................................$129.99 non-compounded 2wk kit
Gonal F...............................................75iu $57.50
Of course these prices are subject to change. Based on my research and comparisons in the end I was able to meet my goal of getting all my meds under $2000 and the best part is that the pharmacy is a short distance from my house where I can pick up in person and refills if needed will be a snap.
Tip: if your RE prescribes any other meds such as antibiotics or meds to help with your egg retrieval procedure or egg transfer, make sure to fill that prescription using your insurance coverage so that the cost is minimized.
Tip #2: another way to cut cost is to find out from your RE or nurse if any samples are available. Some manufacturers will sometimes leave samples with the doctors, similar to when you first start on bc's and you can get your first packet from the doctor's office.
Tip #3: sometimes manufacturers offer coupons on their website for certain drugs, you can always see if there is any available before filling your prescription.
Tip #4: there are tons of other ways to save on meds I am sure so do your research, scoure the internet and be sure to use the resources out there.
