Is it safe to skip doses to save money?

No. It can be tempting to stretch medicine when money is tight, but the National Cancer Institute advises not to skip doses or save them for later. For pain medicine, skipping doses will interfere with your pain control, and taking less than prescribed can harm your health more broadly.

The NCI notes that some people skip doses, take less than prescribed, or do not fill a prescription because of cost — and that the higher the copay, the less likely people are to take medicine as directed. This is common and understandable, but there is a safer path.

If cost is the problem, tell your doctor. They may be able to choose a medicine that fits your budget, such as a generic that usually costs less. Your nurse or a social worker can also point you to discount and assistance programs. And never split or change your doses on your own — only your doctor should make that kind of change. This is educational information, not medical advice.