How to save money on medicines

Generic drugs are copies of brand name drugs. They have the same exact medicine as a brand name drug. A generic is approved as safe and effective by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The brand name drug costs more because of the research and marketing costs that went into making and selling it. The generic drug is the same drug, and it costs less money.

You might also be able to buy a therapeutic equivalent at a lower cost. This is a different drug formula, but it treats the same condition. It may work just as well.

Ask your health care provider if there is a generic option or a similar, less expensive, medicine for the drug you are taking.

You may be able to order a double dose of your medicine, and split the pills in half. It depends on the type of medicine and the dose you are taking. In some cases, it can save you money.

The FDA has a list of drugs that can be split safely. If the pill is approved for splitting, there will be a note in the "How Supplied" section of the medicine label. There will also be a line across the pill to show you where to split it. You should only split 1 pill at a time and use up both halves before splitting another pill.

Do not split pills without talking with your provider first. Some drugs may be harmful if split before use.

Try to find a good mail-order pharmacy for your long-term medicines. Your health plan may offer one to you. You can order a 90-day supply and may have a lower copay.

Also, you can search online for good mail-order prices. Then check with your health plan to make sure the medicines you buy from the program will be covered before you order.

Remember, not everything on the internet is safe. Check with your health plan or provider before you buy to make sure the program is safe.

You may be eligible for a drug assistance program. It depends on your income and health needs. Some pharmaceutical companies offer these programs. They are also called "patient assistance programs." You may get a discount card, free, or low-cost medicines. You can apply directly to the drug company for the medicine you are taking.

Websites such as NeedyMeds (www.needymeds.org) and RxAssist (www.rxassist.org) can help you find assistance for the medicines you are taking.

Some states and health insurance plans also offer assistance programs. Check with your health plan and local government websites.

If you are age 65 or older, look into supplemental drug coverage (Medicare Part D). This optional insurance coverage can help you pay for your medicines.

Take all of your medicines as directed to avoid problems that can lead to illness and out-of-pocket expense. Tell your provider if you are taking other medicines, herbal supplements, or over-the-counter drugs.

Build a good relationship with your pharmacist. Your pharmacist can look out for you, recommend ways to save money, and make sure all the drugs you take are safe.

Manage your condition. One of the best ways to save money on health care costs is to stay healthy.

Check with your provider at each visit to make sure you need to continue taking medicines. There may be other ways to manage your condition that cost less.

Only purchase medicines from a licensed US pharmacy. Do not buy medicines from foreign countries to save money. The quality and safety of these medicines is not known.

Talk with your provider if:

• You are having trouble paying for your medicines
• You have questions or concerns about your medicines

US Food & Drug Administration website. Generic drugs. www.fda.gov/drugs/buying-using-medicine-safely/generic-drugs. Updated April 21, 2023. Accessed July 3, 2024.

US Food & Drug Administration website. Tablet splitting. www.fda.gov/drugs/buying-using-medicine-safely/tablet-splitting. Updated August 23, 2013. Accessed April 22, 2024.

Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.