Money Matters

Lowering the cost of your prescriptions

April 25, 2025
rx
Ritalin

Updated April 2025.

Prescriptions can be a significant expense in your healthcare budget. Fortunately, there are several reliable resources available to help you reduce these costs.

Discount drug cards

These are free and widely accepted, even if you don’t have insurance:

  • GoodRx: Compare prices and print coupons. Often cheaper than insurance co-pays.
  • SingleCare: Similar to GoodRx, includes savings on dental and vision care too.
  • NeedyMeds: Offers a drug discount card and access to patient assistance programs.
  • RxAssist: Find manufacturer-sponsored assistance and a free discount card.
  • ScriptSave WellRx: Offers medication price comparison and savings tracking features.

Mail-order pharmacies

If you’re on a long-term medication, mail-order may offer deep savings—plus the convenience of home delivery.

  • Insurance Mail Orders: Most insurers offer 90-day prescriptions by mail for less than 30-day retail refills.
  • Costco Mail-Order Pharmacy: Available to non-members in many states.
  • Amazon Pharmacy: Price matches and accepts most insurance. Prime members get extra perks.
  • Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs: Transparent pricing model; low-cost generic drugs shipped direct.

Safety Tip: Check that your online pharmacy is legit by verifying it at NABP’s Safe Pharmacy.

Optum Perks

Optum Perks is a user-friendly platform that offers free coupons for both prescription and over-the-counter medications. You can search for your specific medication and find discounts that may be accepted at various pharmacies. Additionally, the site provides options for home delivery and online care services.

Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)

For brand-name drugs, manufacturers often offer direct assistance:

Have a favorite savings tip?

Share your go-to site or strategy in the comments!