Why Dexilant is Expensive: Can Canadian Pharmacies Help?

Paying over $300 for a month’s supply of Dexilant can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s a medication many people rely on to manage GERD effectively [1] [2]. For the millions affected by acid reflux, the steep cost often raises the question of why Dexilant is so expensive in the first place [3]. While this price tag can make consistent treatment feel out of reach, there are practical ways to reduce your expenses without sacrificing relief. This guide explains the key factors behind Dexilant’s cost and offers clear strategies to help you save while staying in control of your symptoms.

What Is Dexilant and How Does It Work?

Dexilant is the brand name for dexlansoprazole [1]. It belongs to a class of medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) [1]. Takeda Pharmaceuticals developed this advanced PPI to provide longer-lasting acid suppression than traditional options [1]. The key difference lies in Dexilant’s unique delivery system [1]. Unlike standard PPIs that release medication all at once, Dexilant uses Dual Delayed-Release (DDR) technology [1].

Dual Delayed-Release Technology Explained

DDR technology creates two separate release phases within a single capsule. The first release occurs about one hour after taking the medication. A second, larger release happens four to five hours later. This two-phase approach extends acid control throughout the day. Most PPIs provide 12-16 hours of acid suppression. Dexilant can maintain effective acid blocking for up to 17 hours. The extended coverage means better symptom control for many patients. It also offers more flexibility with meal timing compared to other PPIs.

Benefits of Dexilant’s Formula

Once-daily dosing makes Dexilant convenient for busy lifestyles. You don’t need to time doses precisely with meals like some other PPIs require. Clinical studies show Dexilant effectively heals erosive esophagitis. The medication maintains healing rates comparable to or better than other PPIs in head-to-head trials. The dual-release formula provides consistent acid suppression. This steady control can mean fewer breakthrough symptoms during the day.

Core Factors Driving Dexilant’s High Cost

Several interconnected factors push Dexilant’s price well above older PPI options. Understanding these factors helps explain why even generic versions remain expensive.

1. Brand-Name Development Costs:

Developing a new drug costs an average of $2.6 billion, according to Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development [4]. These massive upfront investments must be recouped through sales. Clinical trials for Dexilant involved thousands of patients across multiple studies [5]. Regulatory approval required extensive safety and efficacy data [5]. These processes take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars [5].

2. Patent Protection & Exclusivity

Patent protection gives the manufacturer exclusive rights to manufacture Dexilant [6]. Primary composition patents covered the basic dexlansoprazole molecule [6]. Additional formulation patents protect the DDR delivery system [6]. These secondary patents can extend exclusivity beyond the original compound patent expiration [6]. During patent protection periods, no generic competition exists. This allows manufacturers to set prices that maximize revenue recovery from development costs.

3. Complexity of DDR Manufacturing

Manufacturing DDR capsules requires specialized equipment and processes [7]. Creating two distinct release phases within one capsule is technically challenging [7]. Quality control standards are more rigorous than for single-release medications [7]. Each batch must demonstrate proper timing for both release phases [7]. These manufacturing complexities increase production costs compared to standard PPI formulations. The sophisticated process adds expense that gets passed to consumers.

4. Economics of Generic Dexlansoprazole

Generic dexlansoprazole received FDA approval in 2017 [8]. However, brand-name drugs typically drop 80-85% in price once generics launch – this hasn’t happened fully with dexlansoprazole [9]. The DDR technology creates barriers for generic manufacturers [7]. Producing bioequivalent dual-release formulations requires a significant investment in specialized manufacturing capabilities. Fewer generic manufacturers entered the market initially due to these technical hurdles. Limited competition keeps generic prices higher than typical generic drugs.

How to Get Dexilant Cheaper

Multiple strategies might help lower Dexilant costs. Combining approaches and being persistent could improve your chances of savings.

1. Switch to Generic Dexlansoprazole

Generic dexlansoprazole offers the same DDR technology at reduced cost [10] [11]. Cost differences can be substantial [11]. Generic versions typically cost 40-60% less than brand-name Dexilant [2] [11]. Ask your doctor about switching to generic dexlansoprazole. 

2. Prescription Discount Cards

Comparing discount options is always a good idea. Many platforms consistently offer competitive coupons for medications like Dexilant. These services often negotiate directly with pharmacies to secure discounted rates. Another excellent discount option is worth comparing, as their prices sometimes beat others for specific pharmacies or dosage strengths. Always compare prices across different discount platforms, as pricing can vary significantly between pharmacies and programs.

3. Manufacturer Assistance Programs

Takeda’s Help at Hand program provides prescription assistance for eligible patients [16]. Income limits and insurance requirements apply for qualification [16]. Eligible patients can receive significant copay reductions or free medication [17]. The program covers both brand-name Dexilant and generic dexlansoprazole [18]. You can check your eligibility here.

4. Canadian Licensed Pharmacies

Licensed Canadian pharmacies offer another cost-saving option for U.S. patients. According to data from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), prescription drug prices in the United States are often more than double, or even triple, those in Canada [19]. This price difference applies to many brand-name medications like Dexilant. One reason for this is Canada’s Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB), which regulates and keeps drug prices in check by benchmarking them against other countries [20]. Ensure that any online pharmacy requires a valid prescription and displays proper licensing [21]. Avoid unlicensed or suspicious websites that may sell counterfeit medications [21].

Dexilant Alternatives: Affordable, Effective PPIs

Several other PPIs provide excellent GERD control at lower costs. Your doctor can help determine which alternative might work best for your specific situation.

• Omeprazole (Prilosec): Omeprazole is available by prescription [22]. Generic versions cost a fraction of Dexilant’s price [23]. Dosing is typically once daily, taken 30-60 minutes before the first meal [22]. The medication provides 12-16 hours of acid suppression [22].
• Esomeprazole (Nexium): Esomeprazole offers potent acid suppression similar to Dexilant [24]. Generic versions are available at reduced costs compared to brand-name options [25] [26]. The medication works well for severe GERD and erosive esophagitis [24]. Many patients achieve excellent symptom control with once-daily dosing [24].
• Lansoprazole (Prevacid): Lansoprazole is closely related to dexlansoprazole but uses standard release technology [25]. The medication requires timing with meals for optimal effectiveness [25]. Taking lansoprazole 30 minutes before breakfast works best for most patients [25]. Generic lansoprazole costs much less than Dexilant while providing comparable acid suppression for many patients [26].

Lifestyle Tips for Managing GERD Without Breaking the Bank

Some people explore lifestyle changes alongside medication to better manage GERD. These adjustments might help reduce reliance on higher doses or more expensive treatments over time.

1. Consider using a wedge pillow to slightly elevate your head while sleeping [27]. This position may help reduce discomfort caused by nighttime acid reflux [27].
2. You might find it useful to avoid common trigger foods such as chocolate, citrus fruits, spicy dishes, and caffeine [28]. Tracking your meals could help you identify what affects you personally [28].
3. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions may ease pressure on the stomach and potentially reduce reflux [28].
4. If you’re carrying extra weight, gradual weight loss could be something to explore, as it might lessen GERD symptoms in some cases [28].
5. Cutting back on smoking and limiting alcohol might support better digestive health, since both habits are often associated with increased acid production [28].
6. It could be helpful to wait at least three hours after eating before lying down, allowing gravity to aid digestion and possibly reduce reflux [28].

Frequently Asked Questions About Dexilant Pricing

Is Dexilant Better Than Other PPIs?

Dexilant’s dual delayed-release technology provides longer acid control than standard PPIs. This can mean better symptom control and more meal flexibility.

Can I Take Dexilant Long-Term?

Dexilant is approved for long-term use in appropriate patients. Your doctor should periodically evaluate whether continued PPI therapy is necessary.

Are There Cheaper Alternatives to Dexilant?

Yes, several alternatives cost significantly less while providing effective GERD control. Generic omeprazole, pantoprazole, and lansoprazole are the most affordable options.

Conclusion

Understanding the steep cost of Dexilant involves more than just glancing at a price tag—it requires a look behind the curtain at the drug’s complex formulation, development challenges, and limited generic competition. Yet for those managing GERD, cost shouldn’t be a barrier to consistent and effective treatment. By exploring trusted generic options, comparing prescription savings programs, or sourcing from licensed Canadian pharmacies, patients can regain control of both their symptoms and their budgets. One way to do this is through DoctorSolve.com, a reputable prescription referral service that connects American patients with licensed Canadian and international pharmacies. Whether you’re looking to refill a prescription or buying Dexilant online, DoctorSolve can help you access safe, affordable medication options at a fraction of U.S. retail prices. Ultimately, informed choices and reliable support can make long-term GERD care not only possible, but affordable—without compromising on safety or quality.

References

• FDA.gov. (2023). HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
• National Library of Medicine. (2022). Global, regional and national burden of gastroesophageal reflux disease, 1990–2019: update from the GBD 2019 study
• Aacrjournals.org. (2015). Drug Development Costs Jump to $2.6 Billion
• Takenda. (2007). Clinical Study Report
• Pharsight. (2017). Dexilant Patent Expiration
• National Library of Medicine. (2009). Review article: dual delayed release formulation of dexlansoprazole MR, a novel approach to overcome the limitations of conventional single release proton pump inhibitor therapy
• FDA.gov. (2018). 2017 First Generic Drug Approvals
• FDA.gov. (2021). Generic Drugs: Questions & Answers
• MedlinePlus. (2023). Dexlansoprazole
• Helpathand. (2025). At Takeda, we believe all patients should have access to the medication prescribed by their health care professionals
• Helpathand. (2025). About the Program
• Helpathand. (2025). Check Your Eligibility
• GAO.gov. (2021). U.S. Prices for Selected Brand Drugs Were Higher on Average than Prices in Australia, Canada, and France
• Health Canada. (2025). Patented Medicine Prices Review Board
• Health Canada. (2021). Choosing a safe online pharmacy
• MedlinePlus. (2023). Omeprazole
• MedlinePlus. (2023). Esomeprazole
• MedlinePlus. (2023). Lansoprazole
• National Library of Medicine. (2021). The Medical Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Narrative Review