If insurance covers branded at meaningful copay, the insurance route is typically lower total cost.
Applying our published six-criterion rubric. Last refreshed May 20, 2026.
The decision tree:
- Call insurance member services.
- If covered at meaningful copay: pursue branded.
- If denied: appeal; if appeal fails, cash-pay compounded.
See insurance coverage by carrier.
How we score
Pricing transparency (25), pharmacy sourcing (20), clinical oversight (15), regulatory clarity (15), patient experience (15), evidence quality (10). 70% per criterion required for "transparency-compliant." Full methodology: /methodology.html.