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Affordability Check

How to afford PAXIL CR

Generic name: paroxetine hydrochloride

Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get PAXIL CR — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.

How are you covered for prescriptions?

Pick the one that fits you. We'll show you the cheapest way to get this drug.

Pick an option above to see your specific path.

Different insurance means different laws and different savings. For example, Medicare patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards (federal law) — but the manufacturer almost always has a Patient Assistance Program that gives the drug free.

About PAXIL CR and its cost

What is this medication? Paxil CR is a prescription medication known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI. It is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and various anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Additionally, it is approved for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which involves severe physical and emotional symptoms before a menstrual period begins. The CR in its name stands for controlled-release, which means the medication is released slowly into the body throughout the day.

The medication works by helping to restore the balance of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain that affects mood and emotional stability. By increasing the levels of serotonin available between nerve cells, Paxil CR can help improve energy levels, sleep quality, and appetite while reducing feelings of fear, unwanted thoughts, and panic attacks. It is specifically designed to provide a steady level of the drug in the bloodstream, which may help minimize certain side effects compared to the immediate-release version of the drug.

PAXIL CR is made by GlaxoSmithKline. Like most brand-name drugs, it's priced at a high list price — but patients rarely pay that list price. The options above are the real paths most people use to get it affordably.

Common questions

What's the cheapest way to afford PAXIL CR?

It depends on your insurance. On Medicare, apply for the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program (PAP) — it gives the drug free if you meet income requirements. With private insurance, the manufacturer copay card usually drops your copay to $0-$25. Uninsured patients should compare the PAP with Cost Plus Drugs cash price.

Can I use a copay card with Medicare for PAXIL CR?

No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But GlaxoSmithKline has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.

Does my Medicare Part D plan cover PAXIL CR?

Part D coverage varies by plan. We query the CMS Prescription Drug Plan file to show you what percentage of plans cover it and at what tier. For your exact copay, pick "Medicare" above and check your plan's Summary of Benefits, or log in to Medicare.gov.

How long does a Patient Assistance Program take?

Most PAPs take 2-6 weeks from application to first fill. Ask the manufacturer about a "bridge supply" — many will ship 30 days free while your application is being reviewed so you don't go without the drug.

What if I have a high-deductible plan?

For generics, Cost Plus Drugs cash price is often cheaper than your deductible-phase copay. For brand names, the manufacturer copay card almost always wins. A GoodRx coupon can be a last resort for uncovered drugs, but it doesn't count toward your deductible.

Are there charity grants for Major Depressive Disorder?

Charities like HealthWell Foundation, PAN Foundation, Good Days, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders provide copay help for specific conditions. Funds often run out mid-year — apply early. We list the specific grants for your condition in the options above.

More about PAXIL CR