Paying less for prescriptions

What to know

1. Ask for the generic. An FDA-approved generic works the same way and has the same benefits and risks as the brand name. Source: FDA¹ Generics typically cost 80 to 85% less, according to FDA estimates. Source: FTC²
2. No generic? Ask your provider if there's a similar, cheaper medicine that treats the same thing. Source: MedlinePlus³
3. Check your plan's drug list (formulary), which shows the drugs your plan covers. Source: HealthCare.gov⁵ If your drug isn't on it, ask your doctor about one that is.
4. Compare pharmacies. Prices for the same drug can differ a lot from one pharmacy to the next. Michigan's consumer protection office found differences of as much as $500. Source: Michigan AG⁴ Call two or three and ask for the price, with and without insurance.
5. Taking it every month? Ask about mail order. You can often get a 90-day supply and may pay a lower copay. Check with your plan first. Source: MedlinePlus³
6. Still can't afford it? Ask the drug company about its patient assistance program. NeedyMeds and RxAssist can help you find one. Source: MedlinePlus³
7. Talk to your pharmacist. They can recommend ways to save and check that your medicines are safe together. Source: MedlinePlus³

Calling a pharmacy for a price

Hi, I'm checking prices. What would [drug name], [strength], quantity [number] cost? Is there a generic? And what's the price if I pay without insurance?

A message to your doctor's office

Hi, this is [name], date of birth [date]. The [drug] you prescribed costs $[amount] at my pharmacy. Is there a generic or a cheaper medicine that would work, or one on my plan's drug list? Thank you.

Questions for the pharmacist

• Is there a generic for this?
• Is this on my plan's drug list, and what tier?
• Would a 90-day supply cost less?
• Is the cash price lower than my copay?
• Is it safe with the other things I take?

If it doesn't work

• Pharmacy says it needs "prior authorization"? Call your doctor's office. They submit it to your plan.
• Thinking about splitting pills to save money? Don't do it without asking your provider. Some medicines can be harmful if split. Source: MedlinePlus³
• No insurance at all? HealthCare.gov points people without coverage to TrumpRx.gov for prices on certain drugs. Source: HealthCare.gov⁸ Compare its price with your pharmacy's. A community health center may also help. See Sick with no regular doctor.