How I Saved Big on Prescriptions Through Internet Research

Long story short, my doc prescribed $417 worth of drugs for two-week course of treatment. When I went to the pharmacy and they told me the price ($417!!), I asked to see the package. I wrote down all the drugs in the package and came home and researched them on the internet.

Then I called my doc back and asked her to write out the prescriptions individually and for generics, which she did.

I went back to the drugstore today and got my treatment. This time the cost was $10. So through internet research and a cooperative physician, I saved $407.

A partial reason for the savings, I think, was the packaging. The $417 prescription was all packaged up in a box with each dosage in a blister pack, which I hate because they are difficult to open. I'd rather just open a bottle.


Cher

What all meds out of curiosity?

K&R for visibility.

Also, I should add that in Jersey, by law they have to give you the lower priced generic automatically. If you want the higher-priced name brand, you have to say so.

My point is that I didn't save by going generic.


Cher

I'm not sharing my medical information with everyone on the board, and I'm sure you can understand that. I do think, however, if you have some info to share that might help people save money on that particular prescription, people would welcome it. As I understand it from a pharmacist friend, the package you are talking about is quite commonly prescribed.

The point I'm trying to get across is to research on your own and work with your doctor--money can be saved.


Cher

Just getting generics can save you a small fortune. The fancy blister packs are generally for the patented drugs and, yes, it does drive up the price slightly.

Also check out the cheap drugs at Wally's, Target and Costco.

I exempt Synthroid because thyroid replacement drugs aren't always interchangeable. A steady blood level on one brand might not be duplicated by another.