A few ways to save on prescriptions.
Prescriptions are expensive but necessary in a tough economy. Here are some ideas for free or cheaper prescriptions:
- Many pharmacies such as KMart, Wal-mart, CVS and Target are offering many generic prescriptions for $4 or 90 days for $10 or $12. Inquire about what generics are available at pharmacies in your area.
- See if the medication you take is cheaper for the same medicine but in a different dosage pill. Do you take 10 MG of something 4 times a day? It might be cheaper in 2 20 MG tablets cut in half than 4 10 mg tablets cost you now. Many medications are more expensive – up to twice the price – at smaller dosage pills. Find out the price for the same medication you take but at a higher dosage pill which you can split in half with a pill cutter. Ask your doctor to revise your prescription to the cheapest MG increment.
- Are you over 50? AARP has discount prescription programs as well as other discounts and freebies on insurance (including gap policies) and other services like travel for about $16 a year. Sign up with this link and get a free travel kit bag, with compartments for your passport, cards, cheques, phone, etc.
- Sign up for a free printable pharmacy discount card good at 65,000 pharmacies including CVS, Target, Walgreens, etc.
- Check out if you are eligible for any of your medications for free – typically for the uninsured but sometimes still available in special situations such as high medical costs in your family. Visit ppa-rx.org for details
