The Cost of Protonix Without Insurance
Millions of Americans suffer from digestive disorders that cause stomach bile or acid to come back up into the esophagus. The medical term for this condition is gastroesophageal reflux (GER). When it happens occasionally, or only lasts for a short period of time, it is often referred to by common names such as acid reflux, acid indigestion, or heartburn. When the condition is chronic and severe, it is known as gastroesophageal disease (GERD).
Digestive disorders can be disruptive, painful, uncomfortable, and lead to other conditions. Fortunately, there is medication such as Protonix, and its generic equivalent, pantoprazole sodium which can help.
The cost of generic Protonix, called pantoprazole sodium, without insurance, starts at $11.84 for 40 mg and 30 tablets drs using an RxSaver coupon.
Read on to learn more about how Protonix works, the conditions it treats, and the cost of Protonix without insurance.
How much does Protonix cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Protonix can be unaffordable for many people. However, there is an approved generic for Protonix, called pantoprazole sodium, which is very affordable.
When you use an RxSaver coupon for generic Protonix, the price is often less than $20/month.
What is Protonix?
The active ingredient in Protonix is pantoprazole sodium. It belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors. It reduces the amount of acid that your stomach makes.
What conditions does Protonix treat?
Protonix and its generic, pantoprazole sodium are prescribed to treat stomach and esophagus conditions including:
- GERD
- Erosive Esophagitis
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
Common Symptoms of GERD
Symptoms of GERD vary by individual, but include some or all of the following:
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- The feeling of a lump in your throat (dysphagia)
- A feeling of food, acid, or sour liquid in your throat (acid regurgitation)
Common Symptoms of Erosive Esophagitis
Erosive esophagitis is a condition in which the esophagus becomes inflamed, irritated, and swollen, due to acid reflux. Esophagitis has many of the same symptoms as GERD. Symptoms of erosive esophagitis include:
-Burning in the esophagus
- Bleeding in the throat, which is seen in vomit or stool
- The feeling of a lump in your throat (dysphagia)
- Difficulty swallowing
Common Symptoms of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome is a rare disease. It causes tumors to form in the pancreas or small intestine, which leads to excessive production of stomach acid, and ulcers.
Symptoms of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome include:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Tarry, black stool
- Pressure, bloating, fullness after eating
- Burning pain in the abdomen
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Weakness
- Weight loss
How does Protonix work?
Protonix and its generic, pantoprazole sodium block the actions of an enzyme that lead to acid production. In other words, it is an acid-suppressing agent. For individuals with heartburn and GERD, it alleviates symptoms. For those who develop ulcers in the throat due to GERD, Protonix reduces acid production, which allows time for painful ulcers to heal.
Common Side Effects of Protonix
All medications have the risk of side effects. Possible side effects of generic Protonix include:
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Gas
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Stomach cramps
- Vomiting
Most side effects are mild and may resolve on their own, with time. However, you should always report any side effects you experience to your health care provider.
Can you buy Protonix over the counter?
You cannot buy Protonix, or its generic, pantoprazole sodium over-the-counter in the United States. You will need a prescription from your health care provider, to purchase it at a pharmacy.
Always Check RxSaver Before Filling a Prescription
Before you fill a prescription, check RxSaver. RxSaver offers coupons for more than 6,000 medications. When you search for your prescription on the RxSaver website or app, you will find the pharmacy with the lowest price near you.
There is no membership fee to use RxSaver. It is a free platform, open to all. RxSaver coupons are meant to be used if you don’t have insurance. Or, RxSaver coupons can be used in place of insurance, if the copay price beats the coupon price.
*Lowest online price at national pharmacy chains Costco, CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens and Walmart as of 4/22/2021. Prices vary by location and pharmacy, see RxSaver.com for actual pricing in your area.
RxSaver Editors
RxSaver Editors are wellness enthusiasts who help you learn how you can save the most on prescription medication costs and other health-related topics.
Jennifer Liang, PharmD
Chia Feng (Jenn) Liang, PharmD, is a pharmacist who earned her Pharm D. from St. John's University in Queens, NY. She remains in active practice serving as a local pharmacist for Walgreens. She has acted as the first point of care to the community and helped patients understand and manage chronic and acute conditions. She has educated patients on the role and importance of medication and adherence to improve health outcomes.
The information on this site is generalized and is not medical advice. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard seeking advice or delay in seeking treatment because of something you have read on our site. RxSaver makes no warranty as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of this information.
If you are in crisis or you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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