63170 Analysis of oral, topical, and compounded minoxidil prices and insurance coverage

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-1-2025

Publication Title

J Am Acad Dermatol

Abstract

Introduction: Topical minoxidil formulations are sold at varying prices by both large retail pharmacies and compounding pharmacies. All minoxidil products require consistent use, thus can become a financial burden for patients with long-term use. Methods: We compared the prices of minoxidil formulations across retail and compounding pharmacies. Eleven of the most commonly used retail pharmacies were included in our data, including Rogaine, Kirkland, CVS Pharmacy, Target, Kroger, Walgreens, Walmart, Amazon, Hers, Hims, and Ro Co. We also assessed differences in insurance coverage for minoxidil. The five largest healthcare companies by number of insured members were chosen to be included in our formulary data set, including Anthem, Kaiser Permanente, United Health Group, HCSC, and Centene. Medicaid and Medicare Part D were also included. Results: When marketed for women, topical minoxidil is more expensive (the “pink tax”). For the same price, women receive 50% less product per month supply of foam minoxidil. Insurance companies rarely cover topical minoxidil and never cover minoxidil compounded with other products such as spironolactone, tretinoin, bitamoprost, and finasteride. Conclusions: Retail pharmacies explicitly market male products as “not for women,” which allows large pharmacies to market products to women that are less effective and more expensive. This gender discrepancy leads to a larger financial burden for women with long-term minoxidil use. Dermatologists must educate patients about price discrepancies that are rooted in marketing strategies, not evidence-based medicine. Furthermore, dermatologists should be aware of the financial burden associated with minoxidil, especially given that insurance companies provide sparse coverage.

Volume

93

First Page

AB16

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