Safely Save on Prescription Drugs, Part I

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

19 Jun 2006 04:43 AM

Who wouldn't like to save money on meds? Prescription drugs can be very expensive, not only for the uninsured, but also for those who don't have extensive drug benefits included in their health insurance policies. This is especially true if you are required to take a medication long term. While many sources offer tips for saving money on prescription drugs, it is just as important to make sure you don't sacrifice anything in process. In that regard, please review the following tips to safely save money on meds.

Consult with your Healthcare Provider

Let your healthcare provider know if paying for medication is a hardship. He or she may have recommendations for you. By now most people know about generic drugs, but unfortunately there isn't a generic product available for every need. In that case, switching to a less expensive name brand or even using an over the counter product that offers similar results at a lower cost may be an effective strategy. Your doctor may increase the dosage of over the counter medicine, but you should never do so on your own. Only do so under the advice of your physician.

Be Cautious with Free Samples

You may be tempted to ask your doctor for free samples. While this option may be beneficial to get you started on medication that you cannot afford until you can find a way to acquire your medicine, your doctor cannot provide free samples indefinitely. You should also know that samples are usually offered for "designer" drugs, or the newest, most expensive products. You do not want to get started on a more expensive product if you need to take it long term, because even if you save in the beginning by accepting free samples, you will probably end up spending a great deal more in the long run. Besides, trendy new drugs don't offer the benefit of having been studied as extensively as others, so they may prove to be inferior to trusted alternatives.

*Please check back for parts II and III, which also include savings resources.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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