How do I Compare Prescription Medicine Prices?

As the price of prescription drugs increases, it is becoming more important for consumers to make sure that the prices they are paying for medications is the going industry rate and nothing more. There are several resources to which consumers can turn to compare the prices of prescription medications and determine which drugs are the cheapest and most effective for their needs.

Instructions

• 1

  Ensure that you discuss your financial constraints with your doctor or the medical professional prescribing you medication. Ask if you can be prescribed a medication similar in effects but less expensive. Many doctors will work with patients to prescribe generic medications or medications that are less expensive if you voice your concerns.

• 2

  Search internet databases such as pharmacychecker.com or healthpricer.com. These free databases have comprehensive search tools that give up-to-date information on how much a prescription medication costs at various vendors, depending on dosage and country of sale.

• 3

  Call pharmacies in large supermarkets or chain stores, such as Wal-Mart and Target. These pharmacies often carry generic prescription medications for affordable prices; some prescription medications are as low as $4 as of 2010.

• 4

  Compare the price between online vendors and large supermarkets. Take into consideration shipping costs, if you plan to order medication online. Also remember that your doctor will need to call in a prescription, or you will need to fax a prescription, to online vendors.