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Consult with your physician about alternative therapies

Before starting a new prescription, talk with your doctor about non-prescription modifications to your lifestyle, diet or exercise. These changes may postpone, reduce or avoid the need for taking a new medication.

Review your other medications

Let your physician and pharmacist know about all medications you are currently taking before they prescribe or dispense new medications. Some medications may intensify or reduce the effectiveness of another, or may even possibly duplicate effects of another drug you’re taking.


Select the lowest-cost alternative

Many brand-name prescription medications have a generic equivalent. Generic drugs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for safety and effectiveness, and manufactured under the same strict rules of the brand-name. If no generic equivalent is available, there may still be a lower-cost alternative within the same class of drugs that performs the functions you require.

Check about a larger supply

IA lot of times, cost per dosage decreases as amount dispensed increases. If taking a medication for an extended period , ask your physician if it would be appropriate to prescribe a 90-day supply rather than a 30-day supply.

Understand your drug therapy

To get the most value for your dollar, you need to understand how to use prescription drugs effectively. Have your physician and pharmacist explain how and when to take each prescription medication. Factors to consider getting the most from your medication are the effects of:

     * Food and water being taken with your medication.

     * The time of day you take your medication.

     * Effects of other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, on your  prescription.

Store your medications properly

Most medications will lose their effectiveness when they are subject to heat, moisture, light, or time. Store medications in a cool, dark place and remember to check expiration dates and toss out expired medications.

Talk with your physician
Make sure that your physician knows that saving money is important to you. Ask that they prescribe a generic equivalent.  Make sure they know about any other drugs you’re taking that may alter the effectiveness of the medication they are prescribing.

 


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