Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
If you’ve ever skipped a dose or stretched out your medication to make it last longer, you’re not alone. Prescription drug costs are a major concern for many Americans. For some, affording medication means making difficult choices. But cutting back on medication often means cutting back on your health. The good news? There are ways to save without sacrificing your well-being.
Let’s explore why medication adherence is crucial and how you can make your prescriptions more affordable.
Why Do People Ration Their Medications?
Medication costs continue to be a financial strain. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans report difficulty affording their prescriptions, according to recent surveys by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Many people face tough trade-offs—choosing between medications and essentials like food, rent, or transportation. Some delay refills, switch to less effective alternatives, or skip doses entirely—all of which can have serious health consequences.
Rather than rationing, consider using the discounts available through the RxLess™ Assurance Plan, which can help lower the cost of many commonly prescribed medications. The free RxLess™ app provides coupons for major pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, often reducing prices significantly.
What Happens If You Don’t Take Your Medication as Prescribed?
Skipping or adjusting your prescribed medication can have dangerous consequences, especially for people managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol.
For example:
- People with diabetes who miss doses of insulin or metformin risk dangerous spikes in blood sugar levels.
- Those with high blood pressure who skip medications like lisinopril (generic for Zestril) or amlodipine (generic for Norvasc) may experience sudden increases in blood pressure, raising their risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Skipping cholesterol medications like atorvastatin (generic for Lipitor) can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events.
Medication adherence isn't just about following instructions—it’s about protecting your long-term health and preventing costly complications.
How Can You Lower Your Prescription Costs?
Here are several strategies to help reduce the cost of your medications:
Use the RxLess™ Assurance Plan Many people don’t realize that prescription prices can vary dramatically between pharmacies. The RxLess™ Real-Time Pricer allows you to compare prices and find discounts that could save you up to 88% on medications. For example, a glipizide prescription that might cost $26.50 at one pharmacy could be reduced to as little as $2.62 with an RxLess™ coupon, depending on your location.
Ask About Generic Options Generic medications are FDA-approved to work the same as brand-name drugs but are often much more affordable. Common generic alternatives include:
- Metformin (generic for Glucophage) for diabetes.
- Atorvastatin (generic for Lipitor) for high cholesterol.
- Lisinopril (generic for Zestril) for high blood pressure Ask your doctor or pharmacist if a generic version is available for your medication.
Look for Manufacturer Savings Programs Some pharmaceutical companies offer copay assistance programs or provide free samples for brand-name medications. Ask your healthcare provider or visit the manufacturer's website to see if you qualify.
Compare Pharmacy Prices Prescription prices can vary widely depending on where you shop. The free RxLess™ app makes it easy to compare costs at different pharmacies to find the best discounts in real time.
What if you don’t have insurance?
Not having insurance doesn’t mean you have to pay full price for your prescriptions. The RxLess™ Assurance Plan is particularly useful for those without insurance, as it offers discounted prices that are often lower than retail costs. Over 70,000 pharmacies nationwide accept RxLess coupons; you don't need to sign up or pay a membership fee.
What If You Don’t Have Insurance?
Not having insurance doesn’t mean you have to pay full price for your prescriptions. The RxLess™ Assurance Plan is particularly helpful for those without insurance, offering discounted prices often lower than retail costs.
RxLess coupons are accepted at over 70,000 pharmacies nationwide. There’s no need to sign up or pay a membership fee—just search for your medication and present the coupon at checkout.
In addition to RxLess, you can explore:
- Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) from pharmaceutical manufacturers.
- Nonprofit organizations such as Healthwell Foundation and the PAN Foundation.
- State or local health programs that offer medication discounts or free medications for qualifying individuals.
How Can You Stick to Your Medication Routine?
Taking medication consistently can be challenging, but small strategies can make a big difference. Here are a few tips to stay on track:
- Set Reminders: Use phone alarms or a medication-tracking app to alert you when it’s time for your next dose.
- Use a Pill Organizer: A simple weekly pillbox helps keep you organized and avoid missed doses.
- Link It to a Routine: Take your medication at the same time you do another daily habit—like brushing your teeth or having breakfast.
- Refill Early: Don’t wait until you’re out of medication. Use the RxLess™ app to find the best price and refill before you run low.
Also, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re struggling to stay on schedule. They can provide additional support or suggest changes to simplify your routine.
The Bottom Line
Medication adherence is critical to your health. Skipping doses or rationing medications can have serious consequences—but cost shouldn’t stand in the way of your care.
With tools like the RxLess™ Assurance Plan, generic alternatives, manufacturer programs, and practical daily routines, you can stay on track and afford your prescriptions.
