The Cost of IVF Medication: What to Expect and How to Save
One of the often-overlooked expenses in IVF is the cost of medication. Many clinics quote their prices for treatment but do not include the costs of fertility drugs, which can add thousands to the final bill. Understanding the costs and knowing how to save can make a significant difference.
What Medications Are Used in IVF? During an IVF cycle, several types of medications are typically used:
- Ovarian Stimulation Drugs
- These stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
- Common brands: Gonal-F, Menopur, Follistim
- Average cost: £1,000 – £2,000 per cycle
- Trigger Shots
- Used to induce ovulation.
- Common brands: Ovitrelle, Pregnyl
- Average cost: £50 – £100
- Progesterone Supplements
- Helps prepare the uterine lining for embryo implantation.
- Common brands: Cyclogest, Utrogestan
- Average cost: £200 – £400
- Antagonists or Agonists
- Prevent premature ovulation during the stimulation phase.
- Common brands: Cetrotide, Lupron
- Average cost: £200 – £300
Total Cost of Medication in an IVF Cycle On average, medication costs can range from £1,500 to £3,000 per cycle, depending on the dosage and the length of the cycle. Some women require higher doses, which increases costs.
Ways to Save on IVF Medication
- Shop Around for Prescriptions
- Prices for fertility drugs vary significantly between pharmacies.
- Some online UK-based pharmacies offer lower prices for bulk orders.
- Ask for Generic Versions
- Generic versions of some medications are available at a lower cost.
- Request a Prescription to Fill Externally
- Some clinics insist on using their in-house pharmacy. Ask for a written prescription so you can shop around.
- Multi-Cycle Medication Packages
- Some clinics offer a discount if you purchase medications for multiple cycles upfront.
- Check for Grants or Charity Support
- Organisations like Fertility Network UK sometimes provide grants or financial aid for fertility drugs.
Real-Life Example: After realising how much medication added to their bill, Sophie and Mark began sourcing their prescriptions online and saved nearly £500 per cycle. By requesting a written prescription from their clinic, they shopped around and found competitive pricing.
Final Thoughts IVF medication is a major part of the overall cost, but it’s one area where savings can be made. Research your options, ask the right questions, and always compare prices to get the best value.
