Thrifty Thinking: Medicines

Here are some tips to save on medication costs (remember that you need to discuss all tips and changes with your doctor):

- If you're having trouble affording your medications, be up front with your doctor. He or she may have some suggestions.
- Consider OTC remedies first for general medical conditions.
- Find out if there's a generic equivalent (they are required to have the same drug amounts as name-brand, but they don't work for everyone).
- Try lifestyle changes first (such as for cholesterol drugs).
- Find out if you can get a 90-day supply through a mail-order company or your pharmacy to reduce co-pays.
- If you're on a name-brand drug, check the website to see if there are coupons.
- Find out if your local pharmacy will match prices.

Remember, all of those involved in your health care need to know what medications you're on, so it's vital that if you switch pharmacies to take advantage of gift card deals that your doctor knows all medicines and herbal remedies you're taking (including OTC).