How can I save money on cancer medicines?
There are several safe ways to lower the cost of cancer medicines. Your doctor is the best starting point.
The National Cancer Institute suggests asking whether a generic version is available. Generics usually cost less than brand-name drugs. You can also ask about the form of the medicine, since pills may cost less than other forms. To avoid paying for a medicine that turns out not to work for you, ask your doctor to write only part of a prescription first. That helps only if you pay by the amount you buy, and it does not apply to opioids, which cannot be sampled, bulk-ordered, or mailed.
Many insurers offer mail-order pharmacies, which are sometimes cheaper than a local one. Discount drug programs and patient assistance programs can also help you find medicines at a lower cost. Your nurse or social worker can point you to them.
One caution. Never split or change your doses on your own to save money. It could be harmful. Only your doctor should adjust how you take a medicine.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Saving Money on Cancer Medicines
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