10 Ways to Save Money on Your Medicine

Generic prescription drugs can save you a substantial amount of money, but if the generic drugs do not work as well as the name brand then you might as well be defeating the purpose. Here are ten ways to save money on your medications, whether it is name brand, generic, or natural home remedies.

1. Try out lifestyle remedies whenever possible, such as exercise, weight loss, and relaxation techniques. These techniques can help control blood pressure, cholesterol, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

2. Try home remedies. These are especially essential for those who cannot afford prescription drugs or who refuse to resort to chemicals. Home remedies and dietary supplements could work better and are far less expensive than prescription drugs, whether it is generic or name brand. One home remedy is right in your kitchen cabinet, vinegar. We know that vinegar works great for cleaning around the house but did you know it also helps treat and cure nail fungus and athletes foot? Another natural product known as Turmeric can be surprisingly effective for joint pain. Not only will these products save you a lot of money but since they are home remedies there is a lot less chance of having dangerous or irritating side effects that prescription drugs can and do often cause.

3. Don't forget about the non-prescription and over the counter medications. Ask your pharmacist to recommend something that will help treat your ailment and save you money at the same time.

4. Consult your doctor about less expensive prescriptions. You and your doctor may be able to find something that gets the job done and leaves more money in your pocket. You can also ask both your doctor and your pharmacist if you can split your pills in half. That way your medicine lasts longer and saves you money.

5. Do your research. Find out if you're eligible for free medication. The Pharmaceutical Industry has a program to help patients who are in serious financial need get their prescription drugs for free. To find out if you qualify visit Helping Patients or call 1-888-477-2669.

6. If you qualify, take advantage of the Medicare Part D program. This program could save you a substantial amount of money.

7. Dodge the "donut hole." What this means is when your total bill reaches $2,250 for the year, you enter the "donut hole," where you will be responsible for 100% of your medication costs. If you go over that limit for the rest of the year consider different alternatives.

8. Again, do your research when choosing a generic version of your medicine. As long as your medicine doesn't have a narrow therapeutic index and if you follow guidelines in this article then you should be able to save a good bit of money
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9. Control your quantity. When you are first put on a new medication ask your doctor for a free sample, that way you can try before you buy. If your doctor is not able to provide you with a free sample then talk to your pharmacist about a trial dose. That way, once you try the new medication and are sure it is right for you, you can save money by buying in bulk. Check out big box pharmacies like Costco for special deals.

10. Shop around. Compare pharmacies with other pharmacies. You might discover the prices are different between pharmacies. Some charge you more than others. There is a great website you can visit to compare prices with different pharmacies. Visit Pharmacy Checker , type in the name of your medication and you will see a list of prices charged by different pharmacies, including online pharmacies in the United States and other countries. Don't forget to make good judgement about where you buy your medications.

By using these methods I am sure you will save a significant amount on your medicine. I hope I have helped you save as much money as you can.