Frequently Asked Questions

Patient questions

Are any of the lower cost options dangerous?

None of lower cost options are considered more dangerous than the searched medication. The lower cost medications may have advantages and disadvantages, which are thoroughly explained. All options need to be reviewed by a physician before a new prescription can be written.

Are generic drugs as good as brand name drugs?

The generic drugs included in the lower cost options are similar to the brand name version. In many cases, they are even produced in the same factory and on the same assembly line as the brand name drug. However, generic drugs are not acceptable in all cases. Therapeutic alternatives are determined by utilizing a national generic drug rating system to ensure that generics are identified only where appropriate.

How do I get approval for the therapeutic alternative medications?

You can use one of two methods for gaining approval from your physician:

If you have decided on an option and you feel comfortable trying the new medications, send your physician a fax or email requesting a prescription change. (Include the printed version of the "Savings Report" and note which option you prefer). Make sure your physician knows why you are interested in changing medications, how you can be reached if he/she has any questions, and most importantly how you want to receive your new prescription (For example will you be picking it up, do you want it called into your pharmacist, faxed back to you, etc.). Your physician receives lots of these requests so make it as clear and easy to process as possible.

If you are unsure about switching medications, set up an appointment with your physician to discuss the optional medications. Take your printed Savings Report with you and review it with your physician.

How do I know a generic drug is the same as a brand name drug?

Many believe "You get what you pay for." Generic drugs do not reflect that illusion. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) only approves a generic drug for manufacture if it meets the same criteria as the brand name. The criteria include: having identical active ingredients, dosage, administration (i.e. tablets or injection), cautions, warnings, product labeling, similar absorption rates, and consistency in manufacturing. There is a national generic drug rating system that is followed to ensure that generics are recommended only where appropriate.

Is it safe to split pills?

Not all pills can be safely taken when split, but it is safe to split pills in many cases. Pill splitting is included as an option when the pill is made of a compound that can be safely split. It is important when splitting pills to cut the pill into even halves.

What is the best way to split pills?

The best way to split pills is to use a “Pill Splitter/Cutter”. These specially designed little tools are available at most drugstores for less than $5.00.

Why are brand name drugs more expensive?

Brand name drugs are more expensive than generics for two primary reasons. First and foremost, the manufacturers are trying to recover the research and development costs of the drug while they still own the patent. The second reason is that there are no drug price controls, meaning manufacturers can set their own prices.

Why doesn't my doctor agree with one of the drugs or doses?

The list of therapeutic alternatives is determined based on the best sources available at the time and involves some physician judgment. As a result, there may be differences in opinion about the drugs listed. It is still the sole responsibility of a patient's physician to determine the appropriate drug and dose for the patient.

Why is the price shown on the tool different from what I paid at my local drug store?

The prices used for the tool represent a point in time and is the average price for all drug stores unless a specific pharmacy is selected for retail pricing. If not, the actual price you pay may be slightly different based on where you live and/or which drug store at which you purchase your medication.

Will my doctor be offended when I ask for different medications?

Most doctors understand that patients need to save money and are not offended by you asking to change medications. Doctors receive several of these requests each day from major insurance companies trying to contain costs. You are doing the same thing for yourself. Because your physician receives lots of these requests, try to make your request as clear and easy to process as possible.

Does the provider of the medical content have any affiliation with pharmaceutical companies?

The developer is an independent source of information and is not affiliated in any way with any pharmaceutical company, formulary, or preferred drug list of any kind. However, the tool is programmed to display only those options that are lower cost for the member and company.

What makes this tool different?

This service provides the unbiased and comprehensive cost and efficacy information needed to comparison-shop for prescription medications.

Why is this necessary? Don't physicians know the cost of drugs they prescribe?

Doctors don’t always have access to the prices that their patients pay for medications. This system provides another way to increase price transparency in healthcare. Our experience has been that they welcome the opportunity to have this information available.