If you’ve found yourself struggling to pay for prescription medications, you aren’t alone.

In the last 20 years, the price of prescriptions has risen by nearly 75% — and more than 58 million Americans struggle to pay the hefty price tag. Maybe, like them, you’ve had to skip refills, miss doses, and delay your treatment plan.

While drug prices aren’t likely to go down, there are ways that you can reduce the costs of your prescriptions to get the treatment you need. Here, your greatest asset is your local pharmacy.

Many community pharmacies are more affordable than larger chains, especially for uninsured patients. Your community pharmacist has more flexibility to adjust the price of your prescriptions, and they are willing to put in the extra effort to help you save.

On your next trip to the pharmacy, remember these 7 tips to save on your prescription medications.
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1. Choose an affordable pharmacy

When you shop for something new, you probably compare prices. Your prescription medications should be no different. If you want affordable medications, choose an affordable pharmacy.

Not sure what’s available in your area? Use our Pharmacy Finder to locate pharmacies in your area, then give them a call. Take note of prescription pricing and other important considerations in order to find the best choice for you.
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2. Ask about price matching

Even if you already have a local pharmacy, check with others around town for the lowest rate. You can also ask your pharmacy about price matching. They might be willing to lower the price of medications within reason. However, it’s worth noting that the decision to reduce the price of a prescription rests with your pharmacy. In most cases, you might have to go to a different pharmacy.
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3. Ask for a cheaper generic

When your doctor prescribes you medication, they may suggest a name-brand drug.

As an alternative, it may be wise to ask your pharmacist about getting a generic version. Generics contain the same active ingredient as name-brand medications, so they can be easily swapped out and have the same effects.

Generics are typically 80-85% less expensive, too, so find out if your pharmacy has one on hand. Or, for a fool-proof plan, order a generic ahead of time so that you can be sure your pharmacy has it in stock.
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4. Buy in bulk

When refilling prescriptions, it’s standard to get a 30-day supply. Sometimes, though, it can be more cost-efficient to get a 90-day supply. In fact, a recent study suggests that a 90-day supply can decrease out-of-pocket costs by 29%.

On your next pharmacy visit, ask if you can buy your prescription in bulk. They can fill a 90-day supply if your insurance and doctor approve it. Not only can a bulk supply help you save money, but it can reduce the number of times you need to visit the pharmacy.
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5. Look for discounts

Coupons aren’t just for the supermarket anymore. If you find your drug prices are too high, ask your pharmacy about coupons or discount cards to help you save.

Even if your pharmacy isn’t offering discounts, your drug manufacturer may be. Manufacturers for brand-name medications sometimes offer savings that your pharmacist can pass on to you or that you can get directly.
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6. Consider paying cash

Your insurance is designed to make your medications more affordable, but sometimes it can cost you.

For certain medications, your insurance co-pay may be more expensive than what you would pay without it. In situations like these, it’s better to pay in cash. Cash pay can cut out third-party expenses and increase your savings in certain cases.
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7. Apply for a prescription assistance program

Even with resources from the pharmacy, you may still need help paying for your medication. There are many prescription assistance programs available to you, both from the government and nonprofit organizations.

These programs are based on your income and individual needs, but if you qualify, they can cut your costs significantly.

Federal programs like Medicare Extra Help and state assistance programs can help, as well as organizations like Partnership for Prescription Assistance. Find out if you qualify for any of these programs and ask your pharmacist about any questions you may have.
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Conclusion

Prescription drug pricing has been a problem for decades — making medications less affordable, less accessible, and leaving patients to deal with the consequences.

Drug pricing is an ongoing issue that community pharmacists are working to fight against. In the meantime, though, you can look to them to lower prices and give you the best rate for your medications.

Community pharmacists are on your side, and helping you save is just one way they show it.