If you’ve been prescribed duloxetine for depression, anxiety or chronic pain, the biggest question is often “how much will it cost me?” In Australia the price you pay depends on three things: the PBS subsidy, the brand or generic version you choose, and where you fill the script.
Below you’ll get a straight‑forward look at the current out‑of‑pocket cost, how the PBS works for duloxetine, and real‑world tips to keep the bill low.
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidises many doses of duloxetine. As of 2025 the PBS listing covers 60 mg and 120 mg tablets for the indications of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. If your prescriber writes a PBS‑eligible script, the government covers most of the price and you usually pay the standard co‑payment – currently AU$6.80 for general patients and AU$1.60 for concessional patients.
However, the PBS only applies if the prescription meets certain criteria: you must have a documented diagnosis, the dose must be within the PBS‑approved range, and you cannot have already exceeded the maximum number of PBS repeats for the year. If any of these rules aren’t met, you’ll be charged the full retail price.
Full retail prices vary. A 60 mg tablet of the brand name Cymbalta can cost around AU$45 for a 30‑day supply, while a generic duloxetine from a local pharmacy is typically priced between AU$30 and AU$35 for the same amount. The difference isn’t huge, but over a year it adds up.
Even with PBS, you might still face extra costs for things like private script fees or non‑PBS doses. Here are three practical ways to keep your duloxetine expense down:
Another tip: some pharmacies offer loyalty cards or bulk‑buy discounts. If you’re on a long‑term treatment, buying a 90‑day supply at once often comes with a lower per‑tablet price.
Don’t forget to check whether your private health insurer offers any extra rebate for mental‑health medications. While most insurance plans focus on hospital costs, a few do include a modest out‑of‑pocket offset for prescription drugs.
Finally, if you’re traveling or temporarily living in another state, keep your script handy. PBS rules are national, but some remote pharmacies might charge an additional service fee. A quick phone call can tell you if they’ll honour the PBS price or if you need to go to a larger chain.
Bottom line: most Australians on Duloxetine pay the PBS co‑payment of AU$6.80 (or AU$1.60 if concessional). If you fall outside the PBS, expect to spend about AU$30‑$45 for a month’s supply. By checking generic options, comparing pharmacy prices, and using repeat scripts, you can often shave off a few dollars each month.
Got more questions about your duloxetine cost? Our team at Assension Health is here to help you decode the numbers and find the safest, most affordable route for your treatment.
