Ways to Save at the Pharmacy

Don't be so label-conscious

You shouldn't assume your doctor or pharmacist knows you're uninsured or are having trouble covering the cost of your meds. Let him know that you want to get the best value available. "FDA-approved generic drugs are as safe and effective as brand-name drugs," says Vibhuti Arya, Pharm.D., of the American Pharmacists Association. "One reason they're cheaper is that a drug company no longer has a patent on the formula." Talk to your doctor before making a change. For certain meds, switching between brand-name and generic can cause side effects due to slight formula variations.

Try a two-in-one

"If you're taking several drugs for different reasons (like a birth control pill plus a drug to fight acne), ask the pharmacist if there's a pill that can effectively treat them both for a lower cost," Arya says.

Here are 10 ways to save on your birth control pills.

Go halfsies

Ask your M.D. to prescribe tablets that are double the dosage of the ones you're currently taking. "By halving each with a pill-splitter (cost: about $7), you'll get twice the number of pills for practically the same amount of money," says Joel Zive, Pharm.D. But you can't do this with every type of drug. Extended-release forms, capsules and gel-tabs can't be halved.

Comparison shop

Web sites such as pharmacychecker.com and destinationrx.com can point you toward the most affordable drugs. "Type in all your medications to find the cheapest overall deal," Arya says. "Getting your prescriptions filled at different pharmacies is not only inconvenient, but also can increase your chances of dangerous drug interactions."

Ask for help

If you're on a brand-name drug that you can't afford, ask whether the pharmaceutical company has an assistance program for low-income patients. "If you meet the income criteria, the drug manufacturer will provide you with the medication for free for up to a year," Arya says. To find a program, go to pparx.org.

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Take a peek inside your kitchen cabinet

That's where some of the most effective remedies can be found. "Dip a piece of gauze in skim milk (which contains a soothing protein called lactoferrin) and lay it over a rash to reduce inflammation," says Roberta Lee, M.D., of the Department of Integrative Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Honey contains natural bacteria-fighting properties that make it effective for treating wounds (thoroughly clean the cut, then smear a thin layer over it and apply a bandage). "And try fennel to ease an upset stomach," Lee says. A recent study of women with menstrual cramps found that fennel oil also relieves abdominal pain.