Mar 30, 2023

How Much Does IVF Medication Cost?

The total cost of fertility treatment encompasses many components of the process: testing, monitoring appointments, bloodwork, egg retrieval, and follow up care. Another important cost to factor in is the price of fertility medications, which are often not included in treatment pricing quotes found on fertility clinic websites. While this expense will vary depending on the particular patient, the overall cost of medications is generally between $4,000 and $7,000 per treatment cycle, which can amount to 30% of your total fertility cost.

If you are concerned about paying for your medications, Future Family is here to help. We offer fixed rate loans with APRs starting as low as 0% for those who qualify. Plus, our team of dedicated Fertility Coaches, all of whom are registered nurses, can help you take advantage of additional partner and program discounts to significantly lower the price of your prescriptions.

Types of Fertility Medications

Every fertility patient’s treatment plan and medication directives will depend on their unique circumstances, but there are a few major types of fertility drugs that you’re likely to be prescribed for your treatment:

  • Stimulation Meds: Injections to stimulate follicle growth and allow multiple eggs to mature
  • Gonal-F, Menopur & Follistim are all common stimulation drugs
  • These are generally the most expensive category of medications
  • Suppression Meds: Injections to suppress ovulation so that more eggs may mature at the same time for retrieval
  • Cetrotide, Ganirelix & Leuprolide are typical suppression drugs
  • Trigger Meds: Medication to trigger the ovaries to release the mature eggs about 36 hours after being administered, used in advance of the egg retrieval
  • Novarel, Pregnyl & Ovidrel are common hCG trigger meds
  • Some patients may use Leuprolide (Lupron) instead of, or in addition to, their hCG during the trigger phase

Many fertility patients will also be prescribed additional medication(s) to prepare for an embryo transfer to help increase the chance of a successful pregnancy. Supportive medications are continued for several weeks after the transfer, once pregnancy is confirmed.

Why Are Fertility Medications So Expensive?

Unfortunately, fertility drug prices have risen in recent years. One study found IVF medication prices rose 50% between 2014 and 2020, largely because of a lack of cheap, generic alternatives to brand name drugs. And for the majority of Americans, fertility treatment and medication are not covered by their insurance. But the good news is there are ways to lower your prescription bill if you are paying out of pocket.

How to Lower Your Medication Cost

Future Family members are eligible for discounts on some of the most expensive medications at our partner pharmacies.

Plus, our team can help you take advantage of additional medication savings programs:

  • ReUnite & Fertility Lifeline’s Compassionate Care offer deep discounts to those who qualify
  • Heart Tomorrow provides savings on Menopur for patients freezing their eggs
  • GoodRx can be useful for additional savings on many prescriptions (not just fertility-related!)

At Future Family, we believe the cost of fertility treatment shouldn’t be a barrier to something as important as starting your family. Apply today to learn more about your financing and support options!

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