Purchasing Prescription Drugs

February 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Drug prices are getting higher and higher in America, even for those who have health insurance. With high prescription deductibles and more restrictions on flexible spending dollars, it can be difficult for individuals to be able to purchase their necessary drugs, especially for those who are on multiple prescriptions that should be taken every day. Many are now turning to the Internet to purchase their drugs, because often, even without using insurance, this can save money. Some of the websites offer discounts on shipping when purchasing multiple prescriptions, and some are completely legal since they require a valid prescription from a physician before dispensing the medications.

Another way to save money on prescription medications is to purchase them from Canada. The reason the drugs are cheaper is because there are price controls on pharmaceuticals due to the health care system within the country. Those who choose this option report paying about 33% as much as those filling their prescriptions in the United States. The President of the United States has put extra effort into ending this common practice and keep the money within the country, but since the prices of drugs have continued to rise, citizens continue to purchase their medications at outside pharmacies.

Some people even choose to make a trip to Canada to purchase prescriptions, since shipping them can be difficult and encounter problems at customs during transit. For some, however, this simply isn’t feasible and many of the pharmacies offer online ordering. In order to find pharmacies to purchase drugs from, individuals can utilize services such as Canada 411 to make sure they find the best price on their necessary medications. In choosing to purchase prescriptions online or through Canadian pharmacies, patients are finding that they are able to save precious dollars on the exact same medications.

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Are Prescription Medications Different in Different Parts of the World?

December 15, 2010 By Leave a Comment
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Yes, they can be. Depending on the country in which the prescription medications were manufactured, there can be several differences in the dosages (pills, liquid form, capsule, etc.), as well as how much of the active ingredient is used in the medication as well as the strength of said drug.

Another concern involving prescription medications that are manufactured elsewhere in the world include how the drug is stored before it is sold. If a drug is stored at too cold or too hot a temperature, the drug’s effectiveness can be reduced. It is also possible for the drug to break down as a result of extreme temperature. This can cause a danger from possible chemical reactions.

Many people who are reading this article may be purchasing their drugs from Canada, Mexico, or another foreign country, or are considering doing so because of the increasing cost of prescription medications in the United States. It is known that inability to afford one’s prescriptions is in itself a health hazard, as some people are not taking the medications they sorely need, thus making the condition for which they are being treated worse. However, the risk of getting prescription medications from other sources can be equally, if not more, dangerous that not taking them at all.

If you have purchased drugs from a foreign country or are considering doing so, you should be honest and discuss this with your health care professional. If you have already received drugs from a foreign supplier, take them with you on your next visit and let the physician examine them.

Talk to him also about programs that allow prescription medications costs to be reduced, as well as other options for affording the medications you need. After all, the idea is to get well, not make your condition worse–which can happen with foreign prescription medications.

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Drug Abuse leads to Drug Rehab

September 2, 2010 By Leave a Comment
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Many people do not realize that drug abuse is not only a real problem in our society, but also a medical problem. No matter the type of drug that is being abused, there is medical help that can be sought. Whether you reach out to your doctor, or head straight for drug rehab, admitting that you have a problem and seeking help for it is an important thing to do.

Most, if not all, drugs come with some very serious side effects. When these drugs are abused, these side effects are amplified and can lead to bigger issues. With alcohol abuse, the most common problem is liver disease. Abusing alcohol can also lead to mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Memory loss is another side effect of drinking too much alcohol. Prescription drug abuse can cause many of these same problems. Overdose of prescription medication can lead to hospitalization or even death. The side effects of illicit drug use vary, but can include anything from anxiety and hallucinations to heart attack, strokes and cancer.

There are many things that may lead you to believe that a loved one is abusing a drug. If their personality changes significantly and there is no cause, drugs may be the cause. A drop in performance at work can also be an indicator. A refusal to see a doctor may be another sign, as the person may be worried the doctor will uncover the abuse. Unfortunately, there are no tried and true ways to know that someone is abusing drugs. Many times, it is a feeling that a loved one has.

Talking to a doctor if you are abusing drugs of any sort is a step in the right direction. They will be able to keep an eye out for any health issues caused by the drug use, and they can help you get help to quit.

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Getting Prescriptions for Less

June 30, 2010 By Leave a Comment
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Millions of Americans rely on prescription drugs to keep their bodies healthy and well. The cost of prescription medications has gone through the roof lately, and many suspect it will continue to climb. Some manufacturers have raised medication costs to offset lost income due to the recession. While it seems a vicious cycle, there is light at the end of the tunnel. By following a few pointers, you can get the prescriptions you need for free or for a much lower price.

At your next doctor’s visit, ask for free samples of your current and any new medications. When your doctor writes a prescription, ask him to allow for a generic medication in place of a name-brand one. Often times, generic products will cost you considerably less and work just as well. Some physicians and clinics have financial assistance programs to help you obtain the medications you need.

Many drug manufacturers offer programs to help patients who were laid off or who don’t have medical insurance with free prescriptions for up to a year. Pfizer offers some of its most commonly prescribed medications like Lipitor, Lyrica, Viagra, and Celebrex on its program. You must apply for the programs, and the company may ask for proof of employment termination, insurance availability, or income, dependent upon which business you work with. Manufacturer programs don’t usually apply to new prescriptions and are no longer in effect if you start getting health insurance coverage.

Some retailers offer a large amount of generic drugs for a very low amount. You can find prescriptions as low as $4. Check with your local pharmacies, even locally-owned, smaller pharmacies, as they may be competing with national retail programs, reducing the cost of some medications. When you do a little extra work, you can get the medications you need without breaking the bank.

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