How to Save on Prescription Medications – Guest Post!

How to Save on Prescription Medications

Prescription medications can be a serious problem to those who need them. With prices constantly on the rise, paying for a prescription has become increasingly difficult over the years. Luckily, there are ways to save on prescription drugs, allowing you to get what you need to stay healthy while not breaking the bank.

  • Ask your Doctor for Help 

    One of the simplest but most important steps you can take in trying to save money on prescriptions is to talk to your doctor. There are several options available to patients who suffer from financial hardship. Your doctor might be able to give you some free medication samples to help you in the short-term, or she might be able to change your prescription to something more affordable that will yield similar results.

  • Go for Generic Brands 

    Just like any other product in America, prescription medications are often divided into two groups: brand name items and generic items. Many doctors automatically write prescriptions for brand names, but there isn’t a major difference in the effectiveness between brand name and generic medications. Do be sure to research any potential differences when it comes to possible side-effects and other areas of concern, but most of the time, you will be able to save a few dollars by avoiding the brand name.

  • Think Long-Term 

    Buying in bulk tends to save you money, and prescription medications are no different. If you have a recurring prescription, look into the price difference between a 90-day supply and a usual 30-day supply. Typically, you will save some money by buying for 90 days out. This method may cost you a little more money up front, but will save you significantly in the long run. As long as you know you will be using the medication, there is no downside to buying for 90 days instead of 30 days.

  • Look Beyond Local Pharmacies 

    The best financial option isn’t always in your own back yard. If you get your prescriptions filled at a local pharmacy, you might not be getting the best deal. Look into ordering prescription medications online or by mail. Many such outlets will give you a 90-day prescription for the price of one co-pay. If you live near the Canadian border, consider looking into our northern neighbor as an option. Prescriptions can sometimes be much more affordable in Canada due to the differences in the healthcare systems.

  • Know Your Local Bargains 

    If you do stick with a local pharmacy, be sure you know the ins and outs of the deals they offer. Most pharmacies have discount cards or prescription savings programs that can benefit you greatly. By signing up with one of these programs, you will be able to print out coupons online and get a discount on each prescription, usually for a small monthly fee. You may also benefit from comparing costs between local options. Costco and other discount stores often have pharmacies of their own and might have better prices than a typical vendor.

  • Check with your Local Government 

    Many states offer pharmaceutical assistance programs designed to help senior citizens or those suffering from a disability to get the prescription medications they need. If you already receive some state assistance due to low income, you probably qualify for one of these programs if your state offers them. Call your local welfare office to see if your state has such a program and if you qualify for assistance on this front. The applications are usually easy to fill out and response time is quick. Remember that the people running these programs want to help you.

Filling a prescription can be difficult when you are struggling with financial hardship, but there are cost-cutting methods out there. By trying some of the methods suggested on this list, you can wind up saving quite a bit of money in the long run while still getting the medication you need.

About the Author

Kevin Clarke, Pharm.D is a pharmacist and founder of Drugsdb.com, a consumer focused website dedicated to providing easy to understand and up to date drug information.


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