How to Save on Prescription Medications.

People are being prescribed more and more medications and the cost of these medications can be a strain on anyone. If you have insurance coverage, the medication may or may not be covered. Or even with insurance coverage the cost is high. This article will look at some ways to ease that cost.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• computer
• internet access
• time to search and fill out forms

1. Use generic drugs instead of name brands. The cost difference is major. Make sure your prescription is signed on the line that says "substitution permissible" usually on the line in the bottom right of the prescription.
2. Order 90 day quantities of medications and save. Check into mail ordering prescriptions in 90 day quantities. Have your doctor write your prescriptions for 90 days instead of the usual 30 days. Check mail order prices on the internet or through your insurance company and look for any discounts.
3. Check into state or local "card" programs. An example is the Arizona Copper card available to every person in Arizona. The Copper card is a free discount card which applies to all prescription medicines. The discounts are an automatic 15 to 55% off of the price. This card can be used if insurance will not cover a medication or you do not have insurance. Check your own state for these discounts.
4. Check the $4.00 and $10.00 Prescription Lists at local pharmacies. Currently Walmart, Sam's Club and Fry's have a large list of generic medications available for a 30 day supply at $4.00 and a 90 day supply for $10. Go online or go to the store and get a list of these medications. Take the list with you when you go to the doctor and when medication is prescribed see if any from these lists will work.
5. There are ways to reduce the cost of medications. Go on the internet to PPARx.org Partnership for Prescription Assistance.
   Patients and Caregivers have help here to find out if they qualify for programs which will get them medications.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have doubts about using generic drugs, ask your doctor.
• Search for programs and help using the internet.
• Compare online pharmacies.