Tips on How to Get a Discount on Prescription Drug Prices

Prescription drug prices have skyrocketed these past few years. Because of this, many consumers are jeopardizing their health to give way for other essential things like buying groceries and paying bills. If your medication is becoming too expensive for your budget, help might be available.

Why Are Prescription Drug Prices Rising

Did you know that Americans pay for the most expensive prescription drugs in the world? The country’s drug research and development are partly to blame. But, some believe that this is not the whole story.

Drug research and development have indeed contributed a lot to health in general. But, critics argue that only a small percentage of the cost is given to research and development. Furthermore, they believe that most money is spent on brand-name marketing and administration.

7 Ways to Save Some Money on Your Prescription Drugs

Since some prescription drugs are becoming expensive, it is best to know how to reduce the cost of purchasing them. Here are ways you can try to save money on your next prescription drug purchase:

Consider Generic Drug Options

The brand-name medicines you are currently taking might not be the only one that works well for you. More than 80% of all drugs at present are generics. Generic drugs use the same essential ingredients as their brand-name counterparts. Moreover, the latter work the same as the former and tend to cost less.

Generic drugs don’t have to repeat any clinical and animal studies. They are already proven effective and safe. On the other hand, brand-name medicines are required to do many studies to prove effectiveness and safety. Moreover, many companies make generic drugs available on the market. That is why they are more low-cost.

The difference between your brand-name medicine to its generic equal may be seen in other aspects, such as characteristics that don’t affect effectiveness and safety like flavorings. If you plan on switching these medicines to save money, it is best to consult your doctor and pharmacist.

Look For Discount Coupons

Coupons can be very effective in helping you cut the cost of your prescriptions. Moreover, it is easy to search for medicine coupons. In fact, you can easily do it online. A simple search on the internet can take you to web pages that offer money-saving coupons. You just need to type and search for your prescribed medications.

You can use the coupon to lower prescription drug prices at the pharmacy. However, it would help if you make sure that the pharmacist is aware or accepts the coupon to reduce your medicine cost. Make it a habit to search for coupons online before heading to your local pharmacy.

Compare Local Drug Prices Online

The technology we have now can be beneficial in comparing prices. Several mobile applications and websites can help you with finding low-cost prescriptions. You can also use this to see which pharmacies in your neighborhood offer low-cost drugs.

Try Joining Your Pharmacy’s Medication Club

Drugstores tend to have a medication club. This can help lower drug and other supplies costs. Moreover, they can provide up to 85% discounts on various medications. This includes medications for diabetes, heart health, asthma, and other conditions.

Shop at Your Local Pharmacy

Independent pharmacies tend to offer lower prices compared to major supermarkets and drugstores. You should check them out to see if you can save more money buying your medications from them.

Try Mail Order

Many pharmacies cater to orders online. They offer different orders for drugs, over-the-counter medicines, hair supplies, diabetic supplies, pet medications, and the like. Plus, you don’t need to have insurance.

After you place your order, the pharmacy will deliver them through the mail. Yet, you should make sure that the pharmacy is certified and accredited to operate.

Try Patient Assistance Programs

You can search for patient assistance programs (PAPs) offered by several pharmaceutical companies. PAPs are created to provide cheap or even free prescription drugs, especially for those who lack health insurance or medication coverage.

To get started, you may need to fill out an application form. You may need to input your personal and financial information. Furthermore, your doctor may have to provide information about your health and prescriptions. Once that is done, the drug company will assess your application. This is done to see if you are qualified to receive assistance.

If you get approved, the pharmaceutical company will send the supply you need. It can be either sent to your doctor’s office or even your home. Once the supply runs out, you will need to place an order once again. Moreover, you can freely look for drug companies that offer PAPs online.

Takeaway

If your medication has become costly for you, it is best to look for ways to reduce the price. Doing so will make the prescription drug more budget-friendly. Besides that, it can also help you save a lot of money, making more room for other necessities.