Saving Money at the Pharmacy Counter: Here’s How You Can Lower Your Prescription Drug Costs
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Saving Money at the Pharmacy Counter: Here’s How You Can Lower Your Prescription Drug Costs

A few simple steps can help reduce what you pay for prescription medications

August 7, 2025

Prescription drug costs can strain any household budget. Whether you take daily medications or occasional treatments, you have options to lower your out‑of‑pocket expenses. Use these strategies, talk openly with your provider, compare prices, tap into discount programs and explore North Carolina‑specific resources—to keep your medication costs under control.

  1. Discuss cost with your prescriber

    2. Tell your doctor or nurse practitioner that price matters to you along with safety and effectiveness. Ask if a generic or therapeutic substitution is available, generics can cost up to 90% less than brand‑name drugs. Inquire about non‑drug treatments such as physical therapy, exercise or dietary changes. When appropriate, request a 90‑day supply to reduce copays.

  2. Choose the right insurance plan

    3. Review drug formularies during open enrollment to ensure coverage for your medications. High‑deductible health plans have lower premiums but higher initial drug costs. If your insurer reduces or limits coverage mid‑year, ask your provider to submit an exception or appeal to cover the medication.

  3. Compare cash prices

    4. Sometimes paying cash is cheaper than using insurance. Chains like Rite Aid, Walgreens, Walmart and Kroger offer generic lists priced as low as $5 per month without insurance. Call several local pharmacies for their cash price before filling your prescription.

  4. Use online coupons and discount cards

    5. Websites and apps like GoodRx (GoodRx), Blink Health (BlinkHealth) and LowestMed (LowestMed) list current discount vouchers. Present the coupon or card at checkout, savings can reach 80% off list price.

  5. Tap manufacturer and charitable assistance

    6. Brand‑name drug makers often offer patient assistance programs and copay cards to reduce costs. Search NeedyMeds (NeedyMeds) or the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPARx) for eligibility details and applications.

North Carolina Specific Support

  • NC Medicaid Preferred Drug List: Low‑income individuals and families may qualify, see the NC DHHS website for covered drugs and enrollment details.
  • NC AIDS Drug Assistance Program: Eligible residents living with HIV can receive free or low‑cost medications, apply through NC DHHS HIV Care Services.
  • Community Care Clinic Network: Free and sliding‑scale clinics provide discounted or donated medications, find a clinic near you at the NC Community Health Center Association.

By proactively discussing costs with your provider, comparing pharmacy prices, using coupons and leveraging assistance programs, you can significantly reduce your prescription expenses and keep your health on track.