How to Save on Prescriptions

Start with the formulary

Every plan has a formulary — a tiered list of covered drugs. Before choosing a plan, check that your medications are covered and note their tier, since the same drug can cost very differently across plans. After enrolling, ask your prescriber whether a lower-tier or generic alternative would work for you.

Generics contain the same active ingredient as brand-name drugs and cost far less. For many conditions, a generic is clinically equivalent and can cut your cost dramatically.

Beyond insurance

Prices vary by pharmacy, so it pays to compare — including discount programs and pharmacy memberships that can beat an insurance copay for some drugs. Manufacturer assistance programs help eligible patients afford brand-name and specialty medications.

For people on Medicare, recent law caps annual out-of-pocket drug spending, a meaningful protection for those with high drug costs. Matching your Part D plan to your specific drug list is the single most effective way to control Medicare drug costs.

Frequently asked questions

Are generic drugs as good as brand-name?

Generics must contain the same active ingredient and meet the same standards as brand-name drugs. For most people they are equally effective at a fraction of the cost.

Can a discount card beat my insurance?

Sometimes — for certain generics, a pharmacy discount program can cost less than your copay. It is worth comparing, though discount-card spending may not count toward your deductible.