Introduction

This is one in a series of money-saving tips. For more information, please visit my home page.

Prescriptions

I take two maintenance drugs. One is for acid reflux and the other is for cholesterol. Each of these drugs were initially prescribed as brand name drugs and neither of them had generics. At the time, I had drug insurance and so I didn't give it much thought. The copay was $20 each for a month's supply.


pharmacy Ron, a good friend of mine mentioned that he also used a cholesterol-lowering drug and was also initially prescribed a brand name that had no generic. But when he lost his prescription drug coverage he searched around and found that another brand-name cholesterol-lowering drug did have a generic called Lovastatin. He discussed this with his doctor who said it was OK for him to switch to that generic.


I then talked to my doctor who also said it was OK for me to switch to Lovastatin. This lowered my copay to $5 per month. But then it got better because Target started offering this drug for only $4, without the need for any drug insurance whatsoever. Both Target and Wal-Mart offer hundreds of low-priced generics. Note, however, that in certain states the prices are higher due to state laws (fortunately, Illinois, where I live, is not one of them). Both Target and Wal-Mart now also offer a 90 day supply of the generic drugs for just $10.


Walgreens has also started a discount program for generic drugs. Their program has an annual fee of $20 for an individual or $35 for a family. Then, for $12.99, you can get a 90 day supply of certain generic drugs.


Encouraged by my results, I talked to the doctor that prescribed the acid reflux drug and asked if it would be OK for me to switch to Prilosec OTC, an over-the-counter drug. He said yes. I can get a six week supply for around $24 at Wal-Mart or Costco. Occasionally Costco sends me some discount coupons. A recent mailing had one for $5 off on Prilosec OTC.


Obviously the savings I experienced switching to Prilosec OTC wasn't that much until I too lost my drug coverage. But, it now only costs me about $25 per month for the two of them without insurance. Originally, it was costing me $40 per month with insurance.

Update on Prilosec OTC

A generic version of Prilosec OTC called Omeprazole has become available. The six week supply of the generic is only $18.99 plus tax at Costco. It is also available on the internet (see bottom of page).

Disclaimer

I am not a doctor. This site contains my own opinions and experiences and tips submitted to me by my readers. The tips are not professional advice and should not be construed as such. Always consult with your doctor about any changes in medication.

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