Frequently Asked Questions about Arthritis Medications.

Last updated Friday, January 07, 2005

Costs of medications

Reduce costs

Medications can be expensive. Some ways to reduce costs include:

1. Ask your doctor about taking the generic form of the drug. A generic drug contains the chemical that you need to treat your arthritis. When generic drugs are available, you are usually getting the drug you need at a lower cost.

2. Ask your doctor about switching to a less expensive drug.

3. Take your medication as prescribed. Some people don't take the prescribed amount of medication. They feel that if they "save" some of it, they won't have to buy so much and will save money. However, this could actually increase the cost. If you don't take enough, then the drug won't be an effective treatment. Your doctor, not knowing you're not taking enough, may decide you need a stronger or more costly drug. So take your medication as your doctor has ordered it.

4. Try to reduce the number of narcotic pain relievers and tranquilizers you take. Although they may dull the pain, some of these drugs can actually make you feel "down." It may be necessary to use these drugs on a short-term basis for very severe pain. Learn to use other forms of pain relief, such as relaxation techniques, hot packs, hot baths, cold packs, joint protection, energy conservation, mental distraction, or exercise. By using some of these techniques, you will not only reduce the chances of addiction and drug interactions, but also your cost.

5. Carefully check labels on over-the-counter drugs. Brand-name drugs are usually more costly than generic equivalents. In addition, be sure you're not paying for extra ingredients, such as caffeine, that you do not need.

6. Shop for the best prices. Check your local pharmacies for the best prices on the medicines you take.

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