Time and again patients get sticker shock when they arrive to pay for their medications. The first question is usually: “Is there a generic?” and this is quickly followed by: “Did my insurance cover any of it?”

It’s no secret that drug prices are astronomically high in the US. Across the border in Canada, the same medication can cost 25%-75% less. The American consumer is shocked at this because they feel ripped off. Of course, since acute type of medications for immediate need can’t be shopped across the border, the consumer is left to figure it out on their own. Some pharmacies offer free antibiotics, some mass retailers offer $4 generics, and other pharmacies offer discounted prices with membership to their pharmacy’s saving programs. These programs do little to offset the price of branded medications prescribed.

So what does one do? The best answer is to ask your physician or prescriber: “Is this the most cost-effective medication for me to take based on my symptoms?” This question really causes them to stop and think. You see, in most if not all cases, medications are prescribed without regard to the consumer’s price burden. And, since the provider is not paying for the medication at the pharmacy, it doesn’t really matter to them. The next question to ask is: “Is there a generic to this medication?” If you ask these 2 questions before you leave the office/emergency room/walk-in clinic or emergency care center, you can be sure that there will be a difference in your prescription, both upon leaving and price at the pharmacy counter.

Another note –  by shopping around for the best prices on your medication, you risk creating the problem of fragmenting your medication files. This is important to avoid because unwanted effects can occur if the pharmacy doesn’t have all of your allergy, medication, and health-condition information before you fill the new medication prescribed. Drug-drug, drug-disease, and drug-allergy interactions are responsible for many unnecessary hospitalizations. So, try to be aware that by saving a little on one medication at a discount (pharmacy) location, it may cause you (to spend) a lot later on.

Until next week, stay healthy.

Dion