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1. If there's a generic available, get it.
2. Make sure the doctor is making the generic available. If the doctor writes a prescription for a brand name then writes "DAW" or "dispense as written" or checks a box on the script that says that, then ask the doctor why he or she isn't allowing you to get the generic version.
3. Some OTCs can be processed as prescriptions, so you don't have to pay sales tax. Also, if this is an OTC that legally can be run through as a prescription, you may also be able to tax deduct it.
4. Avoid drugs that re-patent themselves with new names to keep you from changing to generics.
5. Make sure you have refills before you drive to the drugstore. This will save you gas and time. Calling the drugstore is the best way to check this.
6. Split pills. Certain drugs cost very little more for a higher dose. If you don't pay a flat copay, ask how much money you could save if you bought half as many pills in a double dose and split them (assuming it's in a form that can be split).
7. If your insurance and the government allows (and you have enough refills), getting more than one month at a time might save you money.
8. Check into discount programs. If you have no prescription drug company, our store has a free discount card from our drug supplier that we give out. The typical discount is 15% if the drug is on that plan.
9. Inform your doctor of what your card(s) cover. With all the thousands of insurance plans out there, neither we nor your doctor are going to know what your exact formulary list looks like.
10. There may be rebates available.
11. Don't over-medicate. Taking more medications than you actually need is not only costly but it can adversely affect your future insurance rates and your health.
12. Please do not be rude to the people at the drugstore. Not all of these tips are going to work in every situation. Often your insurance or a law may get in the way. We didn't pick your insurance, and we have to abide by the law.
2. Make sure the doctor is making the generic available. If the doctor writes a prescription for a brand name then writes "DAW" or "dispense as written" or checks a box on the script that says that, then ask the doctor why he or she isn't allowing you to get the generic version.
3. Some OTCs can be processed as prescriptions, so you don't have to pay sales tax. Also, if this is an OTC that legally can be run through as a prescription, you may also be able to tax deduct it.
4. Avoid drugs that re-patent themselves with new names to keep you from changing to generics.
5. Make sure you have refills before you drive to the drugstore. This will save you gas and time. Calling the drugstore is the best way to check this.
6. Split pills. Certain drugs cost very little more for a higher dose. If you don't pay a flat copay, ask how much money you could save if you bought half as many pills in a double dose and split them (assuming it's in a form that can be split).
7. If your insurance and the government allows (and you have enough refills), getting more than one month at a time might save you money.
8. Check into discount programs. If you have no prescription drug company, our store has a free discount card from our drug supplier that we give out. The typical discount is 15% if the drug is on that plan.
9. Inform your doctor of what your card(s) cover. With all the thousands of insurance plans out there, neither we nor your doctor are going to know what your exact formulary list looks like.
10. There may be rebates available.
11. Don't over-medicate. Taking more medications than you actually need is not only costly but it can adversely affect your future insurance rates and your health.
12. Please do not be rude to the people at the drugstore. Not all of these tips are going to work in every situation. Often your insurance or a law may get in the way. We didn't pick your insurance, and we have to abide by the law.
