How to save on prescription drugs today

• Consider generic drugs. Ask your doctor if less expensive generic drugs could be right for you. Generic drugs are a therapeutic “copy” of the brand-name drug, usually made by another firm. U.S. Food and Drug Administration rules state that a generic drug must have the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form, safety, quality and performance as its brand-name equivalent.

• Ask about brand-name alternatives. In some cases, there is no generic option. A less costly brand-name drug, however, might be available in the same class as the one you’re taking. For instance, several drugs that are part of the same class of drugs lower cholesterol. But the prices of those drugs can vary quite a bit.

• Shop around.  Different drugstores charge different prices for the same prescription drugs.

• Look into discount programs.  You might qualify for any number of discount drug programs.