Lexapro Price UK: What You Need to Know
If you’re looking for Lexapro in the UK, the first thing you’ll ask is – how much does it cost? The answer isn’t a single number because prices change between NHS prescriptions, private pharmacies, and online stores. In this guide we break down the typical price range, show why it varies, and give you practical tips to keep the cost low.
How Prices Vary Across Pharmacies
When you pick up Lexapro from an NHS pharmacy, the charge is usually the standard prescription fee – £9.35 per item in England (free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland). That fee covers the medication itself, so you won’t see a separate price tag for the drug.
If you go private, the picture changes. A 30‑day supply of 10 mg Lexapro can cost anywhere from £30 to £50, depending on the pharmacy and whether you choose a brand‑name tablet or a generic equivalent. Large chain pharmacies often quote a higher price than smaller independent shops, but they might also run occasional discounts.
Online pharmacies add another layer. Reputable sites that are licensed by the General Pharmaceutical Council can sell Lexapro at prices similar to, or sometimes lower than, private brick‑and‑mortar stores. Look for a clear price per tablet, delivery charges, and a valid pharmacy registration number before you buy.
Tips to Lower Your Lexapro Bill
1. Check if you qualify for a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC). For a flat yearly fee (£448 in England for an NHS prescription), you can get unlimited prescriptions. If you need Lexapro regularly, the PPC pays for itself after a few prescriptions.
2. Ask your doctor about generic Lexapro. The generic version contains the same active ingredient (escitalopram) and works just as well. Doctors often prescribe the generic first, which can drop the price by half.
3. Shop around. Call a few local pharmacies and ask for a quote on a 30‑day supply. Many will match a lower price you found elsewhere if you mention it.
4. Use discount cards or schemes. Some pharmacy chains offer loyalty cards that give a percentage off each prescription. It’s free to sign up and can shave a few pounds off each order.
5. Consider reputable online pharmacies. When ordering online, compare the total cost—including delivery. Some sites waive delivery for orders over a certain amount, which can make the overall price lower than a local shop.
6. Check for NHS repeat prescription services. If you’ve been on Lexapro for a while, you can arrange for repeat prescriptions to be sent directly to your chosen pharmacy, saving you time and sometimes a small administrative fee.
Remember, never compromise on safety for a lower price. Only buy from pharmacies that display a registration number (e.g., “MHRA‑licensed”) and have clear contact details. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
By keeping an eye on the standard NHS fee, comparing private and online options, and using the tricks above, you can manage your Lexapro expenses without sacrificing quality. Your mental health is worth the effort, and with a little research you can keep the cost in check.