Ways to Save on Prescriptions for Adults

Why Medication Costs Matter

Prescription medications help manage chronic conditions and keep you healthy—but for many older adults, the cost of prescriptions can be a real burden. The good news? There are many ways to save.

💡 Smart Tips to Lower Your Medication Costs

✅ Ask About Generics

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist if a generic version is available and appropriate for you. Generic medications often cost less than brand name.

✅ Review Your Medications Regularly

• Bring all medications (or a current list of all medications) to each doctor visit.
• Ask: “Do I still need all of these?” or “Can I take fewer pills each day?”

✅ Shop Around

• Prices can vary between pharmacies.
• Mail-order pharmacies sometimes offer discounts

✅ Use a Preferred Pharmacy

• Many Medicare drug plans (Part D) have preferred pharmacies that offer lower co-pays.
• Check your plan’s website or call customer service to find the best option near you.

✅ Order a 90-Day Supply

• Many plans offer savings if you get a 90-day supply instead of a 30-day supply.
• Ask your doctor or pharmacy if this is available for your medications.

✅ Ask About Pill Splitting

• Some medications can be safely split (if your doctor says it’s okay), allowing you to buy a higher dose and split the pill in half—saving money.
• Never split pills without your doctor’s approval.

💳 Programs That Can Help

💊 Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Plans)

• Compare plans every year during Open Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7).
• Use gov/plan-compare or call 1-800-MEDICARE for help.
  • https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/part-d

💸 Medicare Extra Help

• A Medicare program that helps pay for prescription drug costs.
• May lower or eliminate your premiums, deductibles, and co-pays.
• Apply at gov/extrahelp or call 1-800-772-1213 (Social Security).
  • https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/drug-costs

Prescription Discounts

• GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/
• SingleCare: https://www.singlecare.com/
• RxSaver: https://www.rxsaver.com/
• WellRx: https://www.wellrx.com/
• Optum Perks: https://perks.optum.com/discount-card
• AARP Prescription Discount Card: https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/health/rx-discounts-optumrx/
• BlinkRx: https://www.blinkrx.com/

🧾 State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)

• Some states offer additional savings programs.
• Check with your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for availability.
  • https://www.staterxplans.us/index.php

🏥 Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs

• Many drug companies offer free or discounted medications to people with limited income.
• Ask your doctor or visit org or check your medication’s manufacturer’s website for any coupons, discount codes, etc.
  • https://www.needymeds.org/

BenefitsCheckUp®

• https://benefitscheckup.org/

Are you a Veteran?

• If so, some of these additional resources may be available to you:
  • Meds by Mail (MbM)
    • https://www.va.gov/resources/meds-by-mail-for-champva-and-other-family-member-programs/
  • Medications through the VA
    • VA Health Benefits Hotline – 877-222-VETS (8387)

🚨 Avoid These Common Pitfalls

• Don’t skip doses to save money — it can lead to serious health problems.
• Be careful with discount cards that ask for payment or personal info upfront — stick to trusted sources.
• Don’t assume your plan still offers the best deal — check each year.

Need Help? You're Not Alone.

If you're unsure where to start, ask for help from:

• Your pharmacist
• Your primary care provider
• A Medicare counselor or state SHIP representative
• Local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) – you can search for this online by typing “[insert your location] area agency on aging” into your web browser/search engine

They can help you review your options and apply for assistance.

 

You deserve access to the medications you need without breaking the bank.
With a few smart steps, you can find ways to lower your costs and stay on track with your health.

This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.

All links provided are active at the time of publication but are subject to change. Please double check to make sure all websites you access are secure.