Saving money on prescription drugs
By: Mark Gruba
Updated: February 14, 2013
Dr. Mona Chitre discussed ways to save money on prescription drugs Thursday morning on News 8 at Sunrise.
Dr. Chitre is a pharmacist and Vice President of Pharmacy Management for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. She said before considering prescription savings, the first step anyone should take is a walk. Preventative measures can help reduce the need for prescriptions.
She then acknowledged some conditions do require prescriptions and in those cases seeking out generic alternatives to brand name drugs is something everyone should discuss with their doctor or pharmacist. Generic drugs, she said, are as safe and effective as brand drugs, but also cheaper. Consumes can potentially save hundreds of dollars a year.
Each year more brand name drugs go generic. In 2013 the depression drug Cymbalta is on the list.
Dr. Chitre also said it's important to patients to take medication as prescribed. If you don't follow doctor orders, you risk causing more medical problems that may require additional medication. In addition, discussing any concerns you may have about will help your physician decide on a proper prescription.
Dr. Chitre is a pharmacist and Vice President of Pharmacy Management for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. She said before considering prescription savings, the first step anyone should take is a walk. Preventative measures can help reduce the need for prescriptions.
She then acknowledged some conditions do require prescriptions and in those cases seeking out generic alternatives to brand name drugs is something everyone should discuss with their doctor or pharmacist. Generic drugs, she said, are as safe and effective as brand drugs, but also cheaper. Consumes can potentially save hundreds of dollars a year.
Each year more brand name drugs go generic. In 2013 the depression drug Cymbalta is on the list.
Dr. Chitre also said it's important to patients to take medication as prescribed. If you don't follow doctor orders, you risk causing more medical problems that may require additional medication. In addition, discussing any concerns you may have about will help your physician decide on a proper prescription.
