Seniors--save money on your prescriptions

LANSING, Mich.--The high cost of prescription medications forces many senior citizens to make potentially dangerous decisions no one should be required to make: Do I eat, or purchase my medicine? Which drugs can I do without, although I really need all of them? What if I take half the required dose so I don't have to refill the prescription as often?
The Michigan Pharmacists Association (MPA) advises seniors against making such choices to save money on their medicines. Such practices could severely compromise a person's health and well-being; patients need to take their medications exactly as prescribed in order for them to be effective. Acknowledging that the cost of prescriptions is an issue for many seniors, MPA offers the following suggestions for saving money on prescription medications:

• Ask your pharmacist if a generic version of your medication is available. Generic medications go through the same rigorous testing by the Food and Drug Administration, as do the brand-name medications. Often, the same companies that make the brand-name drugs also make a generic version. Generics are safe and effective forms of therapy for most, but not all, disease states.
• Understand that the newest drug for a condition isn't necessarily the best medication. Older medications are typically less expensive and frequently as effective.
• Make sure your physician knows how much the prescription costs and your ability to pay. Sometimes a prescriber is unaware of a medication's price.
• Use one pharmacy for all your prescriptions. That way, the pharmacist can ensure you are not taking duplicate medicines, as well as check for harmful interactions that could be costly to your health.
• Ask your physician for samples of your new medication therapy. This helps to ensure the therapy works before you fill a prescription. And if it does work, you can then inquire about generic alternatives.
• Practice a healthy lifestyle. Eating better, exercising more and stopping smoking often eliminate or reduce the need for certain medications. Check with your physician or pharmacist before implementing such changes.
• See if you are eligible to participate in Michigan's Elder Prescription Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program. The program covers most prescription drugs, as well as diabetic needles and syringes. Seniors pay a monthly, affordable co-pay that is based on their income. Call EPIC's toll-free number, 1-866-747-5844, for eligibility and enrollment information.
• Inquire about patient assistance programs from pharmaceutical manufacturers. Visit the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America website at www.phrma.org for a directory of prescription drug patient assistance programs, or call 1-800-762-4636.

The MPA, serving more than 3,500 pharmacy professionals, strives to be a leader in professional and scientific advancement by following its mission of encouraging and supporting its members as the professionals responsible for the delivery of patient-oriented pharmaceutical care.