Tamoxifen Price in Australia: What You Need to Know

If you or a loved one have been prescribed tamoxifen, the first question is almost always about price. In Australia, tamoxifen is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which keeps the cost low for most patients. However, the out‑of‑pocket amount can still vary depending on your circumstances.

On the PBS, a standard 20‑mg tablet usually costs around $5–$10 per pack for a 30‑day supply. If you’re eligible for concessional benefits, the price drops to roughly $2–$4. For people without PBS coverage, private pharmacies may charge anywhere from $30 to $80 for the same pack, so checking your eligibility is a smart first move.

Factors That Influence Tamoxifen Cost

Several things can shift the price you actually pay:

• PBS eligibility: Concession card holders automatically get the lower price.
• Pharmacy choice: Some pharmacies add a small mark‑up on top of the PBS price, while others stick strictly to the schedule.
• Supply size: Buying a 90‑day supply can reduce the per‑day cost compared to a 30‑day pack.
• Brand vs. generic: The generic version is the standard on the PBS, so you’ll rarely see a brand‑name price unless you opt out of the scheme.
• Location: Rural pharmacies sometimes have higher dispensing fees than city stores.

Understanding these variables helps you predict your bill better and avoid surprise charges at the checkout.

How to Save on Your Prescription

Here are a few practical tips to keep tamoxifen costs down:

• Ask your doctor to write the prescription with a PBS item number. That ensures you’re automatically billed at the subsidized rate.
• Check if you qualify for a concession card. If you’re a student, pensioner, or low‑income earner, applying is quick and free.
• Use a pharmacy that offers PBS price guarantees. Some chains advertise “no extra charge on PBS meds,” which can save you a few dollars each month.
• Consider a 90‑day repeat prescription. Fewer trips to the pharmacy mean less dispensing fee overall.
• Look into government programs that provide additional assistance for cancer medications. State health departments sometimes run special subsidy schemes.

Even a small reduction adds up over a year, especially if you’re on tamoxifen for several years after breast cancer treatment.

Bottom line: tamoxifen is one of the more affordable cancer drugs in Australia thanks to the PBS, but you still need to know your eligibility, shop smart, and ask the right questions. Keep this guide handy next time you pick up your prescription, and you’ll be less likely to overpay.