Rosuvastatin Price UK: What You Pay and How to Save
Rosuvastatin is a popular statin that lowers bad cholesterol and reduces heart‑risk. If you’re looking at the price tag in the UK, you’ll notice a big spread – from a few pounds for a generic pack to over £30 for the brand name Crestor. The exact number depends on where you buy it, how many tablets you need, and whether you qualify for NHS coverage.
Most people get rosuvastatin through a GP prescription. If the drug is listed on the NHS formulary, you usually pay the standard prescription charge (currently £9.35 per item in England) or may be exempt if you’re below a certain income level. Private purchases, however, can run much higher because pharmacies set their own retail price.
Factors That Influence Rosuvastatin Cost in the UK
1. Brand vs. generic – The branded version (Crestor) costs noticeably more than a generic equivalent. Generic manufacturers compete on price, so a 30‑day supply can be under £5 at many pharmacies.
2. Quantity – Buying a larger box (e.g., 56 tablets) often drops the per‑tablet price compared to a small pack of 28.
3. Location – Prices differ between high‑street pharmacies, supermarket chains, and online retailers. Online pharmacies usually list lower rates because they have less overhead.
4. Prescription type – Repeat prescriptions from your GP are usually cheaper than a one‑off private script. Some clinics offer a ‘private repeat’ service that can shave a few pounds off the retail list price.
5. Discount schemes – Discount cards like GoodRx (or UK equivalents) and pharmacy loyalty programs can cut the cost by up to 30 %.
Tips to Lower Your Rosuvastatin Bill
First, ask your doctor if a generic version is suitable for you. In most cases the effectiveness is identical, and the savings are immediate.
Second, compare prices before you buy. Websites that aggregate pharmacy prices let you see which local or online shop offers the lowest rate for the same dosage.
Third, consider using a prescription discount card. Many cards are free and work automatically at the checkout, reducing the amount you pay on the spot.
Fourth, check if you qualify for NHS prescription exemptions – students, seniors, or those on certain benefits often pay nothing.
Finally, plan ahead for repeat prescriptions. Ordering a 90‑day supply at once can avoid extra pharmacy fees and keep you stocked without extra trips.
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best if it means you’ll skip doses. Consistency is key for managing cholesterol, so choose a price that fits your budget while keeping you on track.
In short, rosuvastatin price UK can range widely, but by picking the right generic, using discounts, and staying within the NHS system, you can keep your monthly cost well under £10. Keep an eye on changing prices, and don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist for the latest deals – a quick chat can save you pounds.