How to Save on Prescription Drugs in 2026
Prescription drug costs continue to rise, and many families are feeling the strain. The good news? There are several practical ways to save money—whether you have insurance, Medicare, or a high deductible plan. Here’s a quick guide to the most effective strategies.
Discount Cards: A Simple Way to Cut Costs
Prescription discount cards—offered by companies like GoodRx, SingleCare, and others—can reduce the price of many medications. In some cases, the discount card price is lower than your insurance copay. These cards are free to use and work at most major pharmacies.
Tip: Always compare your insurance price with the discount card price. Use whichever is cheaper.
Pharmacy Shopping: Prices Vary More Than You Think
Drug prices can vary significantly from one pharmacy to another—even within the same ZIP code. Before filling a prescription, check prices at:
- big box stores
- grocery store pharmacies
A few minutes of comparison can save you hundreds of dollars a year.
Manufacturer Assistance Programs
For brand name medications, many pharmaceutical companies offer:
- copay cards
- patient assistance programs
- free trial offers
These programs can dramatically reduce your out of pocket costs, especially for high cost specialty drugs.
How Discounts Interact With Insurance
Here’s the key: discount cards and manufacturer coupons usually don’t count toward your deductible or out of pocket maximum. That means they’re best used when:
- you haven’t met your deductible
- the discount price is lower than your insurance price
- you’re paying cash for a medication not covered by your plan
Used strategically, these tools can help you manage rising drug costs without sacrificing the medications you need.
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How to Save on Prescription Drugs in 2026
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