Cefpodoxime Doesn't Have to Break the Bank

Cefpodoxime proxetil is a widely prescribed antibiotic used to treat ear infections, sinus infections, bronchitis, UTIs, and more. It's available only as a generic (the brand name Vantin was discontinued), which should mean affordable pricing. But if you've looked at the cash price at your pharmacy, you may have been surprised — a typical course can cost $50 to $175 without insurance.

The good news? You almost never need to pay full price. Between discount cards, coupon programs, and patient assistance options, most patients can get cefpodoxime for $15 to $30 out of pocket. Here's how.

How Much Does Cefpodoxime Cost Without Insurance?

Let's start with the baseline. Here are typical retail (cash) prices for cefpodoxime in 2026:

• Cefpodoxime 200 mg tablets, 14 count: $50–$175 at retail pharmacies
• Cefpodoxime 200 mg tablets, 20 count: $53–$174
• Cefpodoxime oral suspension 100 mg/5 mL, 100 mL: $60–$200+

Prices vary widely between pharmacies — sometimes by 50% or more for the exact same medication. That's why shopping around (or using a price comparison tool) is so important.

Coupons and Discount Cards

Free prescription discount cards are the easiest way to save on cefpodoxime. These programs negotiate lower prices with pharmacies on your behalf, and they're accepted at most major chains and many independent pharmacies. No insurance required.

Top Discount Card Options

• GoodRx: Often the lowest price. Cefpodoxime as low as $15–$27 for 20 tablets of 200 mg. Free to use — just show the coupon at the pharmacy.
• SingleCare: Prices starting around $17–$30 for a typical tablet course. Available at CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and more.
• RxSaver: Compare prices across pharmacies near you. Cefpodoxime often available for $18–$35.
• Optum Perks: Coupons accepted at 60,000+ pharmacies. Typical savings of 40–80% off retail.
• BuzzRx: Free discount card with prices competitive with GoodRx for most generics.

How to Use a Discount Card

1. Visit the coupon website (e.g., goodrx.com/cefpodoxime)
2. Enter your zip code and select your dosage
3. Compare prices at pharmacies near you
4. Show the coupon (on your phone or printed) at the pharmacy counter
5. The pharmacist applies the discount — no insurance needed

Pro tip: Prices can vary significantly between pharmacies, even with the same coupon. Always compare at least 3-4 locations. Costco and Walmart often have the lowest prices for generics.

Patient Assistance Programs

Since cefpodoxime is a generic-only medication, there's no manufacturer savings program or copay card. However, patients who are uninsured or underinsured can explore these resources:

NeedyMeds

NeedyMeds (needymeds.org) maintains a database of assistance programs, discount drug cards, and state-based programs that can help cover the cost of cefpodoxime and other generic medications.

RxAssist

RxAssist (rxassist.org) is a patient assistance program database that connects patients with programs offering free or low-cost medications. While most programs focus on brand-name drugs, the site also lists generic assistance options.

State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)

Many states offer their own drug assistance programs for low-income residents, seniors, or people with disabilities. Check your state's health department website for eligibility requirements.

340B Pharmacies

If you receive care at a federally qualified health center (FQHC), hospital outpatient clinic, or other 340B-eligible facility, you may be able to get cefpodoxime at a significantly reduced price through the 340B drug pricing program.

Other Ways to Save on Cefpodoxime

Use Your Insurance

Cefpodoxime is covered on most insurance formularies as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 generic. Typical insurance copays range from $0 to $15 — often less than the discount card price. If you have insurance, check with your plan first before using a coupon card.

Prior authorization is generally not required for cefpodoxime, and step therapy restrictions are rare. Medicare Part D and most Medicaid programs cover it.

Ask for a 90-Day Supply (if applicable)

While most cefpodoxime courses are short (5–14 days), if you're on a longer regimen, ask about a 90-day supply through your insurance's mail-order pharmacy. Per-pill costs are often lower for larger quantities.

Compare Pharmacy Prices

Don't assume all pharmacies charge the same price. For cefpodoxime, prices can differ by $50 or more between pharmacies in the same zip code. Use Medfinder to find stock and compare.

Consider Walmart or Costco

Walmart's pharmacy is known for competitive generic pricing. Costco's pharmacy is open to non-members in most states and often has some of the lowest generic drug prices. It's worth checking both for cefpodoxime.

What About the Oral Suspension?

The liquid form (oral suspension) of cefpodoxime tends to be pricier than tablets — $60 to $200+ at retail without coupons. Discount cards can help bring the cost down, but savings may not be as dramatic as with tablets. If cost is a concern and the patient can take tablets, ask the prescribing doctor about switching formulations.

For children who need the liquid, compounding pharmacies may offer competitive pricing. Call ahead to compare.

Final Thoughts

Nobody should overpay for a common generic antibiotic. With discount cards like GoodRx and SingleCare, cefpodoxime typically costs $15 to $30 — a fraction of the retail price. If you're uninsured or struggling with costs, explore patient assistance resources like NeedyMeds and state programs.

And if you're having trouble finding cefpodoxime in stock, use Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy availability near you. For more on the supply situation, read our cefpodoxime shortage update. And for a complete overview of the medication, see what is cefpodoxime.