Health Insurance Values » HealthLog with Dave Keller

Generics offer safe, low-cost alternative

At a time when many Americans are unemployed or feeling financially strained, prescription drug costs can cause additional burden. Pharmacists have noticed a decline in refills as people try to curb costs.

Failing to take necessary medication puts patients at risk for further illness, which likely means more medical bills. Plus, suddenly stopping certain medications without medical supervision can be quite dangerous.

There are ways to lighten your prescription drug costs. One such option is asking your health care provider if you can take a generic equivalent. Generic drugs cost significantly less than brand name drugs—typically 50 percent less—and they are FDA-approved.

You might also consider a discount program. Here are some we’ve mentioned before:

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance helps qualifying patients without prescription drug coverage get the medicines they need through the program that is right for them. 



Walgreens Prescription Savings Club, the Target and Walmart $4 generic drug programs and similar pharmacy discount programs help make prescription drugs more affordable.

Many associations, like AARP, offer discount prescription programs. Communicating for America association members get a discount prescription drug card with their membership that saves them up to 40 percent at more than 55,000 pharmacies nationwide. 



If you are experiencing financial strain, remember that there are safer ways to save money than stopping the medication you need to manage illness. If you are still unsure about the safety and effectiveness of generic drugs, read our article for more information.