Medications – Out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs can add up. The good news is that there may be ways to save on drug costs. Start by switching to generic options or signing up for discount programs. Here are some other safe ways to save on medications.
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Table of Contents
Tips to Save Money On Your Medications
1. Switch to generics
Generic drugs are copies of brand-name drugs. Generics have precisely the same medicine as their brand-name counterparts. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the agency that approves a generic as safe and effective. The brand name drug costs more because of the research that went into creating it.
You may also be able to purchase a therapeutic equivalent at a lower cost. This is a drug with a different formulation that treats the same condition. It may be just as effective.
Ask your health care provider if there is a generic option or a similar, less expensive drug as an alternative to the medication you are taking.
2. Split Pills
You may be able to order a double dose of your medicine and split the pills in half. This depends on the type of medicine and the amount you are taking. In some cases, doing so can help you save money.
The FDA has a list of drugs that can be safely divided. If the pill has been approved for splitting, a note will be included in the “How Supplied” section of the medication label. Additionally, the tablet will have a line that tells you how to split it. You should only split one drug at a time and use both halves before breaking another pill.
Do not split pills without first talking to your provider. Some medicines can be harmful if they are divided before use.
3. Online Pharmacies or Mail-Order Drugs
Try to find a good pharmacy that sends medications by mail for your long-term medications. Your health plan may offer one. You can request a 90-day supply and have a lower copay.
Additionally, you can search for reasonable mailing prices online. Then check with your health plan before placing an order to make sure the drugs you buy from that program are covered.
Remember, not everything sold on the internet is safe. Check with your health plan or care provider before buying to ensure the program is secure.
4. Discount programs or supplemental coverage
You may be eligible for a drug assistance program. This depends on your income and your medical needs. Some pharmaceutical companies offer these programs. They are also called ” patient assistance programs. ” You may receive a discount card or low-cost or free medications. You can submit your request for the medication you take directly to the pharmaceutical company.
Websites like NeedyMedsi ( www.needymeds.org ) and the Partnership for Prescription Assistance ( www.pparx.org ) can help you find help getting the medications you’re taking.
Some states and health insurance plans also offer assistance programs. Check your health plan website and the website of your local government.
If you are over 65 years of age, consider supplemental drug coverage (Medicare Part D). This optional insurance coverage can help pay for your medications.
5. Use Medicines Wisely
Take all your medications as directed to avoid problems that can lead to illness and out-of-pocket costs. Talk to your doctor if you take other medicines, herbal supplements, or over-the-counter medications.
Establish a good relationship with your pharmacist. This professional can look out for your best interests, recommend ways to save money, and ensure all medications you take are safe.
Control your disease. One of the best ways to save on health care costs is to stay healthy.
At each visit, check with your provider to make sure you need to keep taking your medications. There may be other ways to manage your disease that cost less.
6. Ask your Doctor for Prescription Drug Coupons
From time to time, pharmaceutical companies offer coupons for their brands. Ask your doctor if he can give you some. You can also find some prescription discounts by searching the Internet.
7. Call your Insurance Company
Different plans cover different drugs. Talk to your insurance company and get an idea of the level of drugs you can afford. When in doubt about your coverage, call and ask. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
Be careful
Only buy medications from licensed pharmacies in the United States. Do not buy medicines from foreign countries to save money. The quality and safety of these medicines are not known.
When to Call the Doctor for Medications
Talk to your provider if:
- You have trouble paying for your medications
- If you have questions or concerns about your medications
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