Safely Save on Prescription Drugs, Part II

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

20 Jun 2006 04:47 AM

When it comes to purchasing prescription drugs, safety is every bit as important as savings.

Do not Split Pills

Never take it upon yourself to split pills. First, this is not a viable option when it comes to many time release medications, and it is also never wise to split pills in an attempt to make your medicine stretch further. Your doctor prescribes a particular dosage for a reason. Some resources advise you to ask your healthcare for larger dose pills because they can be split for a lower cost per dosage. You should only do this if there is no other way that you can afford your medication and do so in close consultation with your doctor, because you run the risk of splitting pills unequally and not getting the proper dosage.

Take Care when Comparison Shopping

While it often pays to shop around in order to get the best price, you must take care when it comes to prescription drugs. If you take several medications and purchase each one at a different pharmacy to achieve the greatest savings, it is possible for drug interactions to go unnoticed. Make sure each pharmacy you visit has complete information regarding the other medications you take. This includes prescription drugs as well as over the counter medicines and other supplements that you take on a regular basis.

*Try Pharmacy Checker to compare prices from the comfort of your own home.

Research Internet Pharmacies

Internet pharmacies can provide you with great savings. It is however important to research such outlets before purchasing medication. There are fly-by-night operations and outright scam sites that sell inferior quality or expired medicines. Visit the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website for a list of approved internet pharmacies as well as other important information about purchasing prescription drugs for less.

*Check back tomorrow for Part III.

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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