Life Kit: Health How to get lower prices on prescription drugs
Nov 3, 2025
Dan Weissmann, host of An Arm and a Leg, dives into the high costs of prescription drugs and how to tackle them. He emphasizes the importance of checking for billing errors at the pharmacy. Pharmacists can help with dosing tricks and coupons, while online tools like GoodRx can uncover lower prices. Dan also advises asking your doctor for cheaper alternatives and utilizing patient assistance programs. For anyone grappling with insurance denials, he covers essential steps like using samples and understanding formularies. Equipped with Dan's strategies, you can navigate the prescription maze with confidence!
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Deadly Sticker Shock At The Pharmacy
- Cole Schmitnacht picked up an inhaler he had used for years and was shocked when the pharmacy said it cost $500.
- Within weeks he suffered a fatal asthma attack after walking away because he could not afford or find a covered alternative.
Check For Simple Pharmacy Errors
- If a pharmacy quotes a surprise price, ask them to double-check for input errors or missing insurance information.
- Confirm the pharmacy used your current insurance and request they recalculate before you walk away.
Ask Pharmacists For Cost-Saving Hacks
- Ask the pharmacist about splitting doses, different pill counts, or on-site tricks to reduce cost immediately.
- Also ask the pharmacist to search for coupons or discounts they can apply on the spot.