1. Always buy generic if you can. They’re always cheaper, and some chain stores now offer generics for a flat $4.

2. Shop around! The price of prescription drugs varies widely from store to store. The stores you might think are more expensive, small neighborhood pharmacies, often charge less than the big chain stores. The best price usually is Costco. (Because of Federal pharmacy regulations you do not have to be a member of Costco to use their pharmacy. Just say “Pharmacy” to the greeter at the door.) Before you go, go to their website, look up your meds to compare their price to what you’re paying now.

3. Another money-saving tip is: ask your doctor to prescribe fewer pills at double the dose you need. When you get home cut the pills in half.