Cutting the cost of your medication

The cost of medications can be a serious burden on the elderly, most of whom must pay for medicines out of their own pocket. Even older Americans who have insurance to supplement Medicare often have to pay a portion of the cost of their prescription.

For a new medication, instead of buying a  whole bottle some people ask for just a few pills. You may have side effects from the medication so some find it a good idea to do this when prescribed a new medicine. If you buy just a few pills, you will not be stuck with a bottle of pills that you can’t take.

For ongoing medical conditions, prescriptions can b less expensive in larger quantities. Buying large quantities of medicines can help to save you money in the long run.

Call around for the lowest price. Pharmacy prices vary greatly. If you find a drug cheaper somewhere else, ask your regular pharmacist if he can match the price.

Other ways to make your prescription dollars go further include:

• Ask for a senior citizen discount.
• Ask for a generic equivalent. These non-brand substitutes are tested to be sure they have the same therapeutic effects as the original.
• Get drug samples free. Pharmaceutical companies often give samples of drugs to physicians. Tell your doctor you’d be happy to have them. This is especially convenient for trying out a new prescription.
• Buy store-brand or discount brand over-the-counter products. Ask the pharmacist for recommendations.
• Find out about drug discount or assistance programs.
• Try mail order. Mail-order pharmacies can provide bulk medications at discount prices. Use this service only for long-term drug therapy because it takes a few weeks to be delivered. Compare prices before ordering anything.