Talk to your Doctor or Pharmacist

                          Have your doctor or pharmacist review your medications
                          regularly to make sure you're not taking drugs you don't need
                          anymore. Keep an up-to-date list of all the medicines you take,
                          including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
                          This might prevent harmful drug interactions or taking
                          duplicate medicines. 
                          If you feel that your medication is too expensive, ask if a less
                          expensive one can be used. 
                          Generic versions of many brand name drugs are available. A
                          generic version is the same medicine, but with a different
                          name and, usually a lower price. 
                          For drugs taken on an ongoing basis that are not likely to
                          change, you can save money by buying prescriptions in larger
                          quantities. Ask your doctor to write for several months supply. 
                          Ask about drug samples (especially if this is a new drug to
                          you), non-drug alternatives, or over-the-counter options that
                          can control symptoms. 

               Choose a Pharmacy that is Right for you

                          Ask the pharmacy if they offer discount plans for seniors. 
                          Medication prices vary at different stores and it may pay to
                          compare prices. "Discount" drugs are not always the
                          cheapest ones, since the price may have been inflated before
                          it was "discounted." However, it may be worth paying a little
                          more if you find a pharmacist you trust who looks out for your
                          best interests. 
                          Mail order or on-line internet pharmacies are most appropriate
                          if you are taking a medication on an ongoing basis. While you
                          may save direct drug costs, you will not receive the
                          face-to-face counseling with a pharmacist, which can be
                          critical. 

               Learn about Available Benefits

                          Medicare Part B covers much of the cost of a few oral cancer
                          medicines, drugs that suppress the immune system,
                          medications that go into nebulizers (breathing machines), and
                          the strips used to check blood sugar levels. 
                          Medicaid, some insurance companies, HMO's, and other
                          public programs may pay for some or all of the cost of your
                          medicine. Check the fine print to see if you have a medication
                          benefit and how much your co-pay will purchase. For
                          example, in North Carolina, Medicaid benefits cover up to a
                          34-day supply of medication. 
                          Many drug manufacturers have "patient assistance programs"
                          to help get medicines to people who cannot afford them. Each
                          company has different guidelines and the process will likely
                          involve paperwork. Ask your doctor's office to assist you. 

                          From  http://www.seniorpharmassist.org/advice/