Thinking about starting paroxetine or just curious about the cost? In Australia the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) sets the price you actually pay, not the sticker price you see in the pharmacy window. Below you’ll get the latest 2025 figures, how a PBS subsidy works, and simple ways to keep your out‑of‑pocket cost low.
The PBS looks at the drug’s wholesale price, negotiations with manufacturers, and the government’s budget for medicines. For paroxetine, the 2025 PBS price is about AUD 12 per 20 mg tablet when you have a valid prescription. Most people only pay the patient co‑payment, which is currently AUD 8.70 for general patients and AUD 4.00 for concession card holders. If you’re under the Safety Net, extra purchases after a threshold become free.
1. Check your concession status. If you qualify for a concession card, you’ll automatically pay less. 2. Use the PBS Safety Net. Once you hit the annual threshold (about AUD 1,500 for general patients), any further PBS medicines are free for the rest of the year. 3. Ask your doctor about dosage. Sometimes a lower dose works just as well and costs less in total. 4. Consider generic versions. While paroxetine is already low‑cost on PBS, some pharmacies stock an equivalent brand that might have a smaller co‑payment. 5. Plan your prescription refills. Aligning your refills with the Safety Net threshold can save you a few dollars each month.
Remember, the PBS price is the same across all Australian pharmacies, so you won’t find a cheaper retail price. However, pharmacies can charge a small “pharmacy levy” on top of the PBS price, which varies. Look for pharmacies that clearly list the PBS price and any extra fees before you hand over your script.
If you don’t have a PBS prescription, you’ll pay the full retail price, which can be anywhere from AUD 25‑30 per tablet. That’s why getting a PBS‑approved script matters – it can cut the cost by more than half.
Finally, always keep an eye on the for updates. Prices and co‑payment amounts can change with new government budgets, and staying informed means you won’t be surprised by a sudden price jump.
Got more questions about paroxetine or other PBS medicines? Keep scrolling – we have guides on how to claim the Safety Net, compare antidepressants, and find legit online pharmacies that honour PBS pricing.
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