Discount prescriptions: practical ways to pay less for medicine

Prescription costs add up fast. You don’t need to choose between your health and your wallet. This page shows straightforward, safe ways to get discount prescriptions — from cheap generics to discount cards and trusted online options.

Compare prices and use discount cards

Start by checking prices at several places. Big chains, local pharmacies, mail-order services and online pharmacies can have very different prices for the same drug. Use price-comparison apps or sites to see the lowest out-of-pocket cost. Bring a printed price or screenshot to your pharmacy — some will match a lower price.

Discount cards and coupons are free and stack up fast. Programs like GoodRx or single-drug manufacturer coupons often cut prices by 30%–80% for branded meds. Always compare the card price to your insurance copay; sometimes the card is cheaper than using insurance.

Ask your prescriber for a generic or lower-cost alternative. Generics are bioequivalent and usually much cheaper. If a branded drug has a generic version, pharmacies can usually substitute it unless your doctor writes “dispense as written.”

Patient assistance, bulk options, and safe online orders

If you have low income or no insurance, patient assistance programs from drug makers can provide free or low-cost medicine. Some charities and health centers also help with specific drugs. Apply directly on the manufacturer’s site — they often list eligibility and required documents.

For long-term meds, ask about a 90-day supply. Buying three months at once often lowers the per-dose cost and saves on shipping. Mail-order pharmacies or your insurer’s preferred pharmacy frequently offer better prices for 90-day fills.

Want to buy online? Only use licensed pharmacies. Look for a verified pharmacy seal, a physical address, and a licensed pharmacist contact. Avoid sites that sell controlled drugs without a prescription or request payment by wire transfer only — that’s a red flag.

Be careful with super-cheap offers. If a price seems too good to be true, it might be counterfeit or expired medicine. Counterfeit drugs can be ineffective or dangerous. If in doubt, call the pharmacy and ask to speak with a pharmacist about the drug’s origin and expiration.

Small tips that add up: ask for sample packs from your doctor, check if your employer or insurer has a savings program, and look for local clinics that offer discounted meds. Keep prescriptions up to date to avoid extra costs from emergency refills.

On this site you’ll find guides about buying specific drugs safely online, comparing alternatives, and identifying trusted pharmacies. Use those articles to learn more about a drug before you buy and to spot scams.

Saving on prescriptions doesn’t mean cutting corners. Use price tools, prefer generics, apply for assistance when eligible, and only buy from licensed pharmacies. That way you keep both your health and your budget in better shape.