Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Living with COPD presents its own set of challenges, and one of the most pressing concerns is the financial strain of managing the disease. From medical equipment to prescription medications, the costs can quickly add up, leaving many patients grappling with how to afford necessary treatments. Here are some helpful tips to save money on your COPD Medications:
1.Switch to Generic Medications
Consider opting for generic versions of your COPD medications. Generic drugs often come at a fraction of the cost of their brand-name counterparts while offering similar effectiveness. Consult your doctor to explore generic alternatives for your prescriptions.
2.Use Prescription Discount Coupons or Apps
Prescription discount coupons or apps are a valuable resource for reducing medication costs. These coupons are available for free from rxless.com or you can join the RxLess Assurance Plan by downloading their free app. Both the website coupons and app provide discounts on a wide range of prescription drugs, including those for COPD treatment such as ProAir, Advair, Symbicort, and Breo. If you want the most accurate discounts on the go, download their app. When you use Rxless, you can save as much as 88% on your medications.
3.Explore Patient Assistance Programs
Many pharmaceutical companies offer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) to help individuals afford their medications. These programs provide discounts or even free medicines to eligible patients. Explore the eligibility criteria and application process for PAPs offered by the manufacturers of your COPD medications.
4.Participate in Clinical Trial
Consider participating in clinical trials for COPD medications. Clinical trials provide access to potentially groundbreaking treatments and cover the costs of medications and treatments during the trial period. Explore clinical trial opportunities through reputable sources like the National Institutes of Health.
5.Compare Prices Between Pharmacies
Price comparison among different pharmacies can yield significant savings. Research local pharmacies and online platforms to identify the most cost-effective options for your COPD medications. Utilize online tools like rxless.com for convenient price comparisons.
6.Obtain Longer-term Prescriptions
Opting for longer-term prescriptions can reduce the frequency of pharmacy visits and associated co-pays. Consult with your doctor about obtaining 90-day drugs instead of the standard 30-day supply, potentially leading to co-pay savings.
7.Ask for Discounts at the Pharmacy
When picking up your prescriptions, inquire about potential discounts or coupons available at the pharmacy. Pharmacists may have access to internal savings programs or discounts to help lower the cost of COPD medications.
8.Discuss Your Financial Concerns With Your Doctor
Openly discuss any financial concerns related to COPD treatment with your doctor. Physicians understand the financial strain of managing chronic conditions and may offer guidance, alternative options, or assistance in finding affordable medications.
Managing COPD involves navigating various challenges, including the financial aspects of treatment. By implementing these strategies and exploring available resources, you can alleviate the financial burden of prescription medications.
