How to Save on Rx Costs

With about half of all Americans taking prescription drugs today, it is no wonder people are looking for ways to save at the pharmacy. Forceful marketing and advertising campaigns of prescription drugs can leave people with a narrow scope of what medicine is best for both their health and their wallet. Here are some tips on how to receive the most effective treatment at the lowest price:

2. Obtain larger quantities - Filling a 3-month supply might offer a price break when compared to a 1-month supply.

3. Shop around to save - Call a few stores and ask for a price quote on your prescriptions. Some stores will charge more for one drug but less for another so it's worth making the calls.

4. Choice of medications - Just because a drug is newer doesn't make it better. Stay with an older drug that costs less, if it remains effective.

5. Strength of pill - If a pill is cheaper in the 20mg form and you only need 10mg per dosage, buy the 20mg pills and split them in half to save. Check with your doctor before pill-splitting.

6. Borderline drugs - If convenient, crossing the border into Canada or Mexico can yield substantial savings on some drugs. Mail-order options should also be explored.

7. Drug-assistance programs - Many drug companies offer assistance programs for people with medical and financial need.

8. Government programs - See if your state offers a drug benefit with Medicaid.

9. Discounts, free samples, and coupons - Some pharmacies offer group discounts (i.e. AARP). Also, your doctor may have free samples of the drug you need so be sure to ask. Coupons for drugstores may also prove to save you some dollars.

10. Be knowledgeable about insurance - It is important to know the extent of your benefits, co-payments and annual caps and also which drugs are on the formulary list of your insurance company.