Farxiga Cost Without Insurance: How Canadian Prices Can Help You Save

March 30, 2025
Jason K

Farxiga (dapagliflozin) is a widely prescribed medication used to manage type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and heart failure. But for many U.S. patients without insurance or with high copays, the out-of-pocket cost can be a significant burden. In this article, we’ll explore how much Farxiga costs in the U.S. without insurance, how it compares to Canadian pricing, and what options are available to reduce long-term medication expenses.

What Is Farxiga Used For?

Farxiga belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, which help lower blood sugar levels by encouraging the kidneys to remove excess glucose through the urine. In addition to treating type 2 diabetes, Farxiga is also approved for:

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD), regardless of diabetes status

Its wide range of benefits makes it a go-to choice for patients with multiple chronic health conditions—but also one that can become costly if not covered by insurance.

How Much Does Farxiga Cost Without Insurance in the U.S.?

In the United States, the retail cost of Farxiga can range between $550 and $650 for a 30-day supply, depending on the pharmacy. Even with discount cards or manufacturer coupons, some patients still find themselves paying hundreds per month.

This high cost is often a barrier for people who are either uninsured or have insurance plans that do not cover Farxiga adequately.

Canadian Pricing: Brand vs Generic

In Canada, the same medication is sold under the brand name Forxiga. It’s made by the same manufacturer (AstraZeneca) and contains the same active ingredient, dapagliflozin.

Here’s how prices compare:

Forxiga (Brand Name): Around $119 USD for 30 tablets (5 mg)
Generic Dapagliflozin: Around $32.99 USD for 30 tablets (5 mg)

Both versions are dispensed through licensed Canadian pharmacies and require a valid prescription from a U.S. healthcare provider.

farxiga $119 for 30 tablets

Why Is Farxiga Cheaper in Canada?

Canada’s government regulates the price of prescription medications through its Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB). This means pharmaceutical companies must price their products fairly and in line with international standards.

In contrast, U.S. drug prices are determined by the pharmaceutical companies themselves and may vary greatly depending on insurance status, pharmacy, and region. This lack of pricing control is why Americans often pay significantly more for the exact same medication.

Is It Safe to Buy Farxiga (or Forxiga) From Canada?

Yes—when purchased through a legitimate Canadian pharmacy or a prescription referral service, it is safe and legal for U.S. patients to import up to a 90-day supply of a medication like Forxiga for personal use.

The medication you receive will be the same quality and formulation approved by Health Canada, and often manufactured by the same pharmaceutical company.

Just make sure:

You have a valid U.S. prescription
You’re buying from a reputable pharmacy or referral service
You understand shipping may take 1–2 weeks

Can You Switch to Generic Dapagliflozin?

Yes, in most cases. Generic dapagliflozin contains the same active ingredient as Farxiga and has been shown to be equally effective and safe when used as prescribed.

For many people, switching to the generic version can offer:

Significant cost savings
Consistent treatment outcomes
Simplified refills for long-term care

However, always consult your healthcare provider before switching to ensure the change is appropriate for your condition and treatment plan.

Final Thoughts

Farxiga is a powerful medication, but its price in the U.S. can make it inaccessible for many patients. Fortunately, Canadians pay much less for the same treatment—whether in brand-name Forxiga or its generic form, dapagliflozin.

If you’re struggling with the cost of Farxiga without insurance, exploring your options—including reputable Canadian pharmacies—could help you save significantly while continuing effective care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is dapagliflozin the same as Farxiga or Forxiga?
Yes. Dapagliflozin is the generic name for both Farxiga (U.S. brand) and Forxiga (Canadian brand). All three contain the same active ingredient and are used to treat similar conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease.

Why is Forxiga cheaper than Farxiga?
Forxiga is priced lower in Canada due to government regulations that control drug pricing. In contrast, Farxiga prices in the U.S. are unregulated and often much higher, especially for those without insurance.

Is it legal for Americans to order Forxiga or generic dapagliflozin from Canada?
Yes. According to U.S. regulations, individuals can legally import up to a 90-day supply of a prescription medication for personal use, as long as they have a valid prescription and the drug is approved in the U.S.

Will I need a new prescription to order Forxiga from Canada?
No. Most Canadian pharmacies or referral services will accept a valid U.S. prescription. You can ask your doctor to write a prescription for dapagliflozin 10 mg if you’re switching to the generic.

Is the generic version as effective as the brand-name Farxiga?
Yes. Generic dapagliflozin contains the same active ingredient and is held to similar quality and efficacy standards as the brand-name version. It offers the same therapeutic effect at a significantly reduced cost.