How to save money on medications

Learn how to save money on your over-the-counter medications without sacrificing quality.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Almost every over-the-counter drug has a generic version or a cheaper alternative, mostly store-brand, that works the same way as the more expensive brand.

2. You can save money by switching from brand name drugs to cheaper FDA approved alternatives by talking to a pharmacist.

3. Shop in a store with an in-store pharmacy and at the time the pharmacy is open. If unsure of pharmacy hours, call the store ahead of time before going to the pharmacy. Take the original bottle of medication(s), with you, if any.

4. Ask the pharmacist to recommend a generic or substitution product that will achieve the same effect as the brand name. When possible, go for the store brand of the products since it is usually the least expensive.

5. Ask if there are any store coupons or discounts for the medications that you are purchasing. Some store give discounts on store brands as an incentive to promote store products.

6. Since some stores will match the price of the same or similar product from a different store, you can call other pharmacies for a price check.

Tips & Warnings

• Inform the pharmacist about other medications you are taking to avoid drug interactions.
• Tell the pharmacist as much of your medical history, including other disease/conditions, so that an informed decision can be made
• Pharmacist are expected to be ethical and to observe your privacy based on HIPPA regulations.
• If the product you are seeking is FDA approved, always make sure that the substitution is also FDA approved. Not all OTC (over-the-counter) drugs are approved. See related article.
• See cheapmedications.me for more relevant articles
• Even though the pharmacist is an expert is medications, the advice received from your pharmacist does not replace your doctor's advice. Always inform your doctor before taking any new medications.