Prescription Related Questions

Generic vs. Brand Name Drugs: 13 Things You Should Know

Author , posted on November 1, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


generic vs brand name drugs

Did you just bring your prescription refill home only to find it looks different? Don't fret because it's probably a generic version of your medication.

Knowing the differences between generic vs. brand name drugs is useful for patients and providers alike. While they're both useful, you may find one works better for you.

Read on to learn more.

1. Which Comes First

One of the biggest differences between generic vs brand name drugs is which hits the market first. The brand name version will always be available before a generic version.

Brand name manufacturers have to spend time and money on research and development of the drug. Then, they have to go through the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval process.

Finally, the brand name will be available to treat the conditions that the FDA approves it to treat. After the drug hits the market, doctors and patients will slowly switch over to it to test it out.

Having that time to test the one drug means you can figure out if it's the right medication for you. And you won't have to worry about experimenting with different generic versions.

2. Brands Get Patent Protection

After a drug manufacturer files for FDA approval, the drug will receive a patent for the next 20 years. That gives the company plenty of time to sell the drug and make back the money it spent on research and development.

While other manufacturers may be able to develop generic versions, they can't release those drugs until the patent expires. At that point, the generic drugs will have to go through the same approval process with the FDA.

The companies making generic drugs have to prove that the drug works the same way as the brand name version. Otherwise, the drug won't be able to hit the market.

Once the 20-year patent expires, one generic could become available. However, if multiple companies develop a generic, there could be a ton of options.

3. Generics Aren't Always Available

Because of the patent period, not all brand name drugs have a generic equivalent. If a brand drug just hit the market, it will be the only option for a while.

However, generics aren't always going to hit the market as soon as a patent expires. The brand name manufacturer may do whatever it can to keep the FDA from approving generic drugs.

That way, the brand can keep charging a massive amount for the medication. But since they won't allow a generic drug to receive FDA approval, patients have no choice but to pay those high rates.

This tactic is especially common with specialty drugs, though any manufacturer could attempt something similar. It's unfortunate for patients, so you may need to switch to a different medication because of the cost.

While uncommon, there may be drugs that other companies don't want to sell. If other manufacturers don't develop generics, you may not get to take it.

4. Generics Have to Be Similar

When comparing generic vs. brand name drugs, you may notice a few differences. However, the drugs have to work the same way when you take them.

Generic drugs must be the same as the brand name regarding:

  • Strength
  • Route of administration
  • Purity
  • Quality
  • Dose
  • Active ingredients

Generic medications have to have the same benefits and effects on patients as the brand name. If the quality of a generic drug is lower than that of its brand name equivalent, you shouldn't take it.

The same is true if the active ingredient is slightly different. Active ingredients are the most important part of medication, so any difference in that can have massive consequences for anyone taking the medicine.

Before you take a generic drug, you should look to make sure the active ingredient is the same as for the brand. That way, you can feel safe taking the medication despite its differences.

5. They Have Different Inactive Ingredients

One of the differences you'll find between brand name and generic drugs is the inactive ingredients. These make up the medication, but they aren't the ingredient that treats or relieves symptoms.

The active ingredient needs to be the same, but things like dyes can differ between manufacturers. Because of this, the generic medication may taste slightly different.

However, these differences have to exist so that the generic drug doesn't violate the brand name's trademark. Even after the patent expires, the brand still maintains a trademark for the formulation of the drug.

In a lot of cases, the inactive ingredients don't matter, so you can take any version of the medicine. But there are some cases where the ingredients can make one version better than another.

6. The Appearance Can Differ

Along with the variety of ingredients, you will find that generic drugs look different from the brand name. Factors that differ include the shape and the color.

If the medicine has numbers imprinted on it, those can also differ between generic and brand name drugs. Like with the formulation, the appearance has to be unique to keep from violating the brand name's trademark.

Some generic drugs may appear similar to the brand name. Maybe the color is slightly lighter or darker, or perhaps the shape is a bit rounder on one version of the medicine.

As long as the generic drug has the same active ingredient and is the same dosage, it can look very different. It's up to the manufacturer to design the medication to meet standards without impeding on the brand name.

7. Generic Drugs Are More Affordable

If you've ever compared generic vs. brand name drugs, you've probably learned that generic drugs are more affordable. They have to compete with the existing brand name drug as well as other generics to sell the medicine and make money.

Taking generic medicine can be an excellent way for patients to save money on healthcare costs. You can shop around for a pharmacy that uses the cheapest generic drug available.

Of course, this isn't always an option, such as if you're taking a new brand name drug. But if you need to take a medicine that has been on the market for decades, generic is the way to go.

In most cases, it will be perfectly okay for you to take the medicine. And you won't have to pay as much for the drug each time you refill it.

8. Generic Drugs Are Safe

Even though they cost less, generic drugs have to go through the same approval process and brand name medications. That means the generic version will almost always be as safe as the brand.

You can get the generic medicine from your local pharmacy, or you can shop around at safe pharmacies online. Then, you'll have more choices regarding how you get the drugs you need.

If you want to be extra safe, you could wait for a generic to be on the market for a few years. At that point, your doctor may have access to studies and results from patients taking the generic version.

You'll be able to decide if you want to switch to the generic drug. However, if you don't want to wait, you should be able to switch early on and still have good results.

9. There Are Generics and Authorized Generics

When looking at types of generic drugs, you should consider authorized generics. An authorized generic drug refers to a medication that the original manufacturer created to sell along with the brand name.

That gives manufacturers a way to make money from the second version of the same drug. The brand name version may still cost more, and the company can make some sales from it.

However, the company will be able to make more sales by offering a generic for a lower cost. That way, they don't have to worry as much about the competition for generic drugs.

Like any other generic version, they can't look identical to the brand name. So you may not even know if you're taking an authorized generic drug or a regular generic.

10. Some Insurance Plans Require You Get Generic Drugs

When comparing health insurance plans, consider if the plans require you to take generic medicines. Some insurers won't pay for the brand name, so you either can't take it, or you have to pay more for it.

You might find that the copay for a brand name is significantly higher. If that's the case, you may want to stick with a generic drug until you either switch plans or can afford the higher cost.

Since some drugs don't have generic alternatives, you should also ask your insurance company about that. Hopefully, they will cover the cost of the brand name since a generic isn't on the market.

But you may still need to pay for a decent chunk of the cost. You might decide to go out of network to get the medication you need, but that can also be costly.

11. Certain Generic Drugs Are Significantly Different

While most generic drugs have minimal differences from the brand name, that's not always the case. Some drugs can work differently, and taking the wrong version can have devastating effects.

Narrow therapeutic index drugs include certain medications that require precise dosage. Even a small difference regarding the dose or the blood concentration can keep the medication from working properly.

Drugs that fall into this category include flecainide, lithium, and certain anti-epileptic drugs. If you need to take one of these drugs, you should consider if a generic is safe for you.

Of course, you could experiment with the generic version, and you might do just fine. You and your doctor should consider the risks before you make the switch.

It may be safe for some patients, but it can be problematic for others. Be sure you know if you're on a narrow therapeutic index drug to make sure you get the treatment you need.

12. Some People Do Better on a Brand Name Drug

Whether a drug has a narrow therapeutic index or not, some people do better on the brand name version. That could be due to the inactive ingredients or other small nuances.

If you take the brand name and switch to generic but then have side effects, you may want to revert to the brand name. Switching back could cause you to no longer have those negative effects.

On the other hand, if you have side effects on the brand name drug, you may want to try a generic version. Your health history and factors such as allergies could affect how you react to different versions of the same medication.

Be sure to keep track of your symptoms and when you take the drug in question. Then, you can speak to your doctor about trying the brand name version to see if it helps you.

13. Your Doctor Knows Best

When comparing generic vs brand name drugs, you may form some opinions. You might start to believe that one is better for you than the other or that you can't afford the brand name.

However, you need to consult with your doctor before switching versions. Your doctor will be able to examine you and consider your history with the drug and drugs in general.

They might find that one type of generic drug has an ingredient you shouldn't take. Then, the doctor may suggest you switch to a different manufacturer or to the brand.

If you have to take one specific version, such as the brand, you don't have to go to your local pharmacy. You can talk to your doctor about your options, such as getting a discount card.

Or you might decide to go online to find a cheaper pharmacy where you can order the medication. Then, you won't have to go broke to get the treatment you need.

Generic vs. Brand Name Drugs: How They Compare

Whether you just received a new prescription or have taken a drug for years, you should compare generic vs. brand name drugs. Generics can be affordable, but they look different, and they aren't always as safe as you expect.

On the other hand, brand name drugs are more expensive. And you don't have to wait for a patent to expire to take the medication, which can be nice if no other medicine works.

Are you ready to save money on your generic or brand name drugs? Order your prescription today.

Works Cited

  • FDA: Frequently Asked Questions on Patents and Exclusivity
  • The Hospitalist: Cost gap widens between brand-name, generic drugs
  • PricePro Pharmacy: Want to Save Big on Your Prescriptions? Choose an Online Canadian Pharmacy
  • US Department of Health and Human Services: Treatment of Authorized Generic Drugs
  • PricePro Pharmacy: How Much Do Prescription Drugs Cost Without Insurance?
  • NCBI: Drugs with narrow therapeutic index as indicators in the risk management of hospitalised patients
  • PricePro Pharmacy: Prescription Services at Your Fingertips: How to Order Medicines Online
  • PricePro Pharmacy: How to Order Your Prescription Drugs Online from Canada

How Much Do Prescription Drugs Cost Without Insurance?

Author , posted on July 23, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


how much do prescription drugs cost without insurance

8% of Americans or 26.1 million people don't have any form of health insurance. This puts them at the risk of being unable to obtain necessary treatments and prescription drugs.

All of these citizens may wonder, "how much do prescription drugs cost without insurance?" The unfortunate fact is that there is no single answer. It depends on various factors such as what medications you get and where.

Knowing how much you'll have to pay is the best way to ensure you'll be able to get the right amount without making a huge dent in your wallet. Read our guide for an overview of how much insurance will cost you and how it will affect the price of your medications.

How Much Does Insurance Cost?

Obtaining health insurance can be a life-or-death choice. 34 million adults know a patient who died after not being able to receive treatment. 58 million adults are unable to pay for necessary prescription drugs.

Understanding the costs of your policy is the best way to avoid either of these unfortunate situations. The amount you pay will depend on factors such as where you live, the type of coverage you receive, and the premiums and deductibles your insurance company charges.

Where You Live

The country that you reside in is one of the most important factors that determines your rates. The average monthly cost for an individual to buy health insurance is $403 in the US and $160 in Canada. 

Your final costs also depend on which area of the country you live in. For Americans, insurance rates differ in each state. For example, the average 27-year-old will pay anywhere from $723 per month in Wyoming to $282.20 per month in New Mexico.

Canada uses a better system that allows it to keep costs low. The PRMB or Patented Medicine Prices Review Board ensures that drug prices are fair, informs citizens of prescription trends, and uses other countries to gauge a fair market value.

Drug manufacturers work to create lower rates to ensure they don't lose business. Once they set a price, Canadian Medicare adds 6% of extra coverage, leaving citizens responsible for only 20% of their prescription drug costs.

Look into the average insurance rates and drug costs in your area to ensure you're getting a fair deal. Your prices should match what your neighbors are getting and be enough to cover your needs.

Type of Insurance

There are several types of insurance to choose from provided from a range of different insurance companies and/or the government itself. Your taxes and paycheck go towards them, so you want to make sure you choose the best possible type for your needs.

At least 57% of American firms offer employer health coverage to at least some of their workers. This type of private insurance is one of the most common ways to get insurance.

Everyone in Canada gets basic emergency health insurance paid for by their taxes, but it's not always enough to cover all forms of care or every prescription drug. 

65% of Canadians have private insurance, often through their employers. Most of these additional policies cover:

  • Prescription medications
  • Dental care
  • Physiotherapy
  • Ambulance services
  • Prescription eyeglasses

Choose the right type of insurance and look at the details of your policy before signing on the dotted line. It's the best way to ensure you only pay for what you need and end up paying as little as possible for your crucial medications.

Deductibles

A deductible is a set amount that you must exceed before your insurance company will cover your costs. This applies to everything from a serious medical procedure to a single refill of a prescription drug.

 

If you're American, remember to consider health insurance deductibles when asking how much you'll pay. The average is $1,655 for a single worker, $2,271 for small firm employees, and $1,412 for large firm employees.

 

All of these factors determine how much you'll pay for prescription drugs with or without insurance. You need to know your deductible and premium before you fill your prescription to ensure you can afford your prescription.

How Much Do Prescription Drugs Cost Without Insurance?

Americans spend about $1,200 on prescription drugs each year, which is more than any other developed country in the world. This is partially because of the way their healthcare system works.

Prices differ, but knowing everything that affects your final costs in advance is one of the best ways to save money. Factors that affect your medication costs include the type and amount of medication you receive.

Amount

Buying in bulk is a useful money-saving strategy for all necessities. It's usually associated with groceries, but it's just as useful for medication.

Bulk orders save you money in the long run by limiting the amount of times you have to return to the pharmacy and pay for a refill. They're a useful way to get around limits in your insurance policy that will only pay for the same prescription a certain number of times.

Bulk purchasing allows you to have as much as you need ready at all times. This is an important consideration for critical daily medications like insulin injections. It's also helpful for occasional medications as well.

For most prescription drugs, a 60-day supply costs only slightly more than a 30-day supply. A 2 or 3-month supply can be an even more economical option.

Splitting higher dosages of medications into the amount you require is another way to save money. If you need to take 2000mg per day, try buying a 4000mg supply and cutting each pill in half so that you have twice as many doses.

Brand Name vs. Generic

84% of prescriptions filled in America are for a generic medication. They're an easily available, equally effective alternative for most popular medications. The choice between these two types of medications would be a matter of preference if they didn't affect your final price so much.

There are several differences between generic and brand-name options. Lower competition leads to lower prices, saving Americans approximately $1.67 trillion.

Certain insurance policies don't cover generic alternatives but, if yours does, it may be the most affordable option for you. It's also a great choice for anyone without insurance who needs to carefully manage their budget.

How Should You Buy Prescriton Drugs?

Your insurance policy and medication needs are only the first two considerations when determining how much your prescriptions will cost. You also need to look into the provider you're purchasing them from.

You have several options when deciding where to get your prescription drugs. You can compare prices at pharmacies, rely on your health insurance, use co-pays, or look for a reputable online pharmacy.

Pharmacy Price Comparison

Traditional pharmacies are one of the most common options for getting medication refills because they're readily available. The downside is that they're not the most affordable and aren't transparent in their pricing.

You may see differences in the hundreds of dollars depending on which pharmacy you use. They need to cover their operational costs when pricing their products, but these vary widely from store to store. This translates to different prices for consumers.

Chain stores like CVS and Rite Aid are the most expensive options with and without insurance. It's best to avoid these familiar powerhouses and search for a more affordable provider.

 

Insurance

Answering a question like how much do prescription drugs cost without insurance involves determining how much they cost with insurance. Look at your premium and the price of the drug you need to see if you'll actually be saving any money. If not, consider a new policy or other money-saving methods to help reduce costs.

There are several reasons not to rely solely on insurance when purchasing medications. 

Health insurance companies and Plan D Medicare have a limited list of medications they cover. They won't cover a drug until it's approved by the FDA, and if the prescription you need to fill isn't on their list, you'll have to pay for it out of pocket.

Insurance companies abritraily place medications into categories with similar alternatives and usually cover the cheapest option. You're still required to pay for more expensive options yourself.

Knowing how much your insurance policy covers is helpful, but it may not be enough. Be sure to look into other options to get the best final price.

 

 

Co-Pay Cards

Co-pays are an unfortunate part of most insurance plans. They allow the company to only pay a percentage of the cost of your medication and treatments, leaving you to cover the rest. 

A co-pay assistance card or savings program can help with these costs. You can get one from a drug manufacturer, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. Present it to your pharmacist when purchasing the medication for savings on your final bill.

Co-pay cards are unfortunately only available to those with private or commercial insurance and no government insurance like Medicaid or Medicare. Certain states like California don't allow them to be used at all when a generic alternative for the drug you're trying to save money on is available.

The cards also come with limits on how often they can be used and how much savings they can provide. They expire after a period of time as well, which can leave you without the benefits you once enjoyed.

A co-pay card can help reduce the costs you need to pay with insurance, but they're restrictive and don't provide the best savings. There are much better methods for getting your medications at a better price.

 

Online Pharmacies 

American drug prices are one of the highest in the world, which is why many residents go out of the country to fill their prescriptions.

 

An online Canadian pharmacy is better than your traditional counter, insurance policy, or co-pay card alone. It costs up to 88% less and offers useful discount coupons. 

Despite the benefits they provide, you need to do research to ensure you find a reputable online Canadian pharmacy. 

Look at the prices they charge for the medication you need, what type of insurance they take, and how much of a supply they can provide. Remember to check shipping costs to ensure that you're not paying too much to have your medication sent to America.

The online pharmacy must also be accredited and verified by Pharmacy Checker. This is the best way to ensure you're not getting ripped off.

Once you've found the right online pharmacy, set up an account and make an order. They'll send you the medication you need, and you can rest easy knowing you'll be paying less than you would in America.

What's the difference in medication costs in Canada and the US?

For many prescriptions, buying from another country can give you astronomical savings of 50% or more. A simple price comparison is enough to show the possibilities.

A few examples of the many medications that cost less in Canada include:

  • Gleevec for cancer treatment:
    • $6200 a month in America
    • $552 in Canada
  • Viagra for erectile dysfunction:
    • $60-70 per pill in America
    • $30 per pill in America for the generic alternative Sildenafil
    • $11.25 per pill for Sildenafil in Canada
  • Cymbalta for depression
    • $200 per month in America
    • $50 per month in Canada
  • Xarelto for blood clots
    • $550 per month in America
    • 50% less or more in Canada
  • EpiPens for allergic reactions
    • Over $100 per dose in America
    • $200 for 2 EpiPens in Canda
  • Januvia for diabetes
    • $400 per month in America
    • $100 per month in Canada
  • Tecfidera for multiple sclerosis
    • $6,000 for 60 pills or $100 per dose in America
    • $25 per pill or $1,100 for a 60-day supply in Canada
  • Advair for asthma
    • $400 per inhaler in America with coupons or insurance
    • Less than $100 in Canada

No matter what type of prescription drug you need, you can save money by trusting a reputable Canadian online pharmacy.

 

 

Where Can I Get the Best Prescription Drug Prices?

Several factors play into a question like, "how much do prescription drugs cost without insurance?" It depends on where you are, what your insurance policy includes, which medications you need, and more.

There are several ways to ensure you get the best price. Begin by getting the best possible insurance policy that covers everything you need. Continue by choosing the right type and amount of your medication and finding the best online pharmacy to purchase it from.

PricePro Pharmacy is a reputable Canadian distributor of a range of prescription medications. Contact us today to find what you need at the best possible price, with or without insurance.

Works Cited

  1. https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2020/demo/p60-271.html
  2. https://news.gallup.com/poll/268094/millions-lost-someone-couldn-afford-treatment.aspx
  3. https://www.pricepropharmacy.com/healthcare-in-canada-vs-us-3-essential-differences/
  4. https://www.investopedia.com/how-much-does-health-insurance-cost-4774184
  5. https://www.monster.ca/career-advice/article/how-much-are-health-benefits-canada
  6. https://www.cnbc.com/2019/01/10/why-prescription-drugs-in-the-us-cost-so-much.html
  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4870419/
  8. https://www.pricepropharmacy.com/generic-drugs-vs-brand-name/
  9. https://www.pricepropharmacy.com/co-pay-cards-drug-insurance-and-canadian-pharmacies-what-is-actually-the-cheapest-comparing-pharmacy-pricing/
  10. https://www.pricepropharmacy.com/save-your-cash-9-medications-that-are-cheaper-at-canadian-pharmacies-than-in-the-us/
  11. https://www.pricepropharmacy.com/contact-us/  

How Much Does Mesalamine Cost for Ulcerative Colitis?

Author , posted on March 28, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


Mesalamine cost

An achy stomach. The constant need to head to the bathroom. Guilt about having to cancel events. All of these can come with having ulcerative colitis, and medications like mesalamine can help.

You're probably wondering, does mesalamine cost a lot? If you're on a budget, you can still afford the medication you need.

Keep reading to learn about the cost of mesalamine.

What Is Mesalamine?

Mesalamine is one of many drugs that can treat ulcerative colitis and other diseases of the bowels. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease that can cause sores (ulcers) to develop in your large intestine.

Mesalamine is one of many drugs that can help treat ulcerative colitis. You may use it alone or with other drugs, depending on what your doctor recommends.

The drug comes in many forms, including tablets and capsules. It's safe for almost anyone over the age of five to take.

Whether you have ulcerative colitis with or without other conditions, mesalamine can be a good treatment option. And you have multiple ways to get it.

Mesalamine Brands

Mesalamine is the generic name for the medication, and there are a few brand names selling it. The most common brand name in the United States is Apriso.

In Canada, you can get generic mesalamine, or you can choose from a few brand names.

  • Asacol 800
  • Asacol HD
  • Delzicol
  • Lialda
  • Pentasa

All of these brands can work like the generic. They can help treat mild or moderate ulcerative colitis, and they can reduce various disease symptoms, like inflammation.

No matter which your doctor prescribes, you can get the relief you need. And if the cost is a concern, you can ask for the most affordable option your doctor can provide.

How Does It Treat Ulcerative Colitis?

The way mesalamine works depends on the formula you get. Mesalamine comes in tablet and capsule form, and you can get it with a delayed-release or an extended-release formula.

Delayed-release tablets and capsules have a coating that keeps the medication from inactivating before it reaches the stomach. That way, the drug can be more effective at treating ulcerative colitis.

Extended-release capsules release the medication for an extended period after you take them. Whilethe two formulations can treat ulcerative colitis, they aren't the same.

Your doctor should be able to recommend the best formulation for you and your needs.

How Much Does Mesalamine Cost?

The brand, formulation, and medication amount can all affect how much mesalamine costs. Just because the medication label is similar, doesn't mean the cost is.

On average, mesalamine costs $395 for 120 0.375 gram (g) capsules. The brand Apriso has the same dosing, and 120 capsules cost roughly $550.

Meanwhile, 180 delayed-release 400 milligram (mg) capsules cost about $540. Delzicol is the brand equivalent to this dosing, and it costs about $740 for the same supply.

If you prefer the tablet, you can get 120 1.2 g tablets for around $495. The brand Lialda comes with the same formulation, and you would need to pay about $1,200 for the same amount of mesalamine treatment.

A supply of 180 800 mg delayed-release tablets costs around $1,200. Asacol HD is the brand name for this formula, and you can expect to pay about $1,780 for this amount of medication.

Factors That Affect Mesalamine Cost

Like a lot of drugs, mesalamine can be expensive, depending on where you get it. However, you can save a lot of money on your medication if you know where to look.

Before you send your prescription to your local pharmacy, consider if you can get a better deal. That way, you won't have to pay as much for your medication.

Generic vs. Brand

One of the biggest factors that can change your mesalamine price is if you get the generic version or one of the available brands.

While Apriso capsules are relatively affordable, you can save almost $600 on Asacol HD if you get generic mesalamine. The generic can also save you over have the cost of the brand Lialda for the same medication.

If you've taken one of the mesalamine brands, switching to the generic medication is probably the easiest thing you can do. Generic drugs go through the same approval process as brands, so you can know it will be effective.

Competition

The amount of competition in the market can also affect the cost of mesalamine. If there was only one brand name selling it, the price would probably be much higher.

However, there are four different brands making various formulations of mesalamine. And that doesn't include any of the manufacturers who aren't working under a brand name.

If you can shop around for different mesalamine manufacturers, you can ensure you get a good deal. Then, you can go back to that maker when you need a refill.

Dosage Form

Overall, mesalamine capsules cost less than the tablets. The prices are lower for both generic and brand names, so a capsule may be a good option if you want to save money.

But you may also want to consider if extended-release or delayed-release is better. The extended-release capsules cost less than the delayed-release. However, you get more tablets in a supply.

Delayed-release capsules have a lower per-unit price. But the delayed-release tablets cost quite a bit more than either type of capsule.

You can also take mesalamine as a rectal suppository or enema. These forms can work as well as the oral forms, but you won't have to take the medication through your mouth.

Dosage Amount

You should also consider how much mesalamine your doctor prescribes you to take each day. Now, you can't always control your dosage, but you can save money.

If you can buy a bigger supply, you may pay less over time. Of course, you can also save money with a generic version and other factors.

But if your symptoms are mild, you may want to consider starting with a lower dose. You can increase it if necessary, but if not, you can keep your medication costs low.

Pharmacy

If you've gone to the same pharmacy for years, it can be tempting to take your new mesalamine prescription there. You probably know and trust the pharmacists.

However, some pharmacies can charge a lot more than others. Your pharmacy will have operating costs, and they may not always have enough mesalamine in stock.

Before you submit your prescription, do some price comparison. You can look at local pharmacies and pharmacy chains.

If you still think the cost is high, you can also consider ordering your prescription from abroad. Some international pharmacies can charge less than the one down the street from you.

An international pharmacy can be just as trustworthy. You can get your mesalamine and any other medications you need all in one place.

Insurance

Of course, you also have to consider your health insurance plan. You should think about your deductible and prescription co-pay amounts.

Depending on your insurance plan, you may need to pay for the entire medication yourself without help from insurance. Even if you have a co-pay, it may be higher than you like.

You can shop around for the best cost, but you may still need to pay a lot. If you don't have much money for your medical expenses, your insurance may not be enough.

You could switch to a new insurance plan. But you'll still need to pay your monthly premium in addition to your medication.

Available Coupons

Some pharmacies know that drugs can cost a lot. So they may offer coupons or discounts on certain medications.

You can find a few mesalamine coupon programs where you can save money. Those programs won't eliminate your drug cost, but they can help.

Consider if you can get a good coupon for a pharmacy near you or abroad. You never know how much you can save unless you try.

Supply

You may also want to look into getting a three-month supply instead of a one-month supply. Not only can you save money on shipping, but you can lower your per-unit cost.

Ordering your medications in bulk will cost more when you order. However, bigger supplies usually have lower costs per pill.

The savings apply whether you get generic mesalamine or one of the different brand names. You don't need to stock up for months, after all, that could cause your medication to expire before you get to it.

Still, you can safely order your medication for a few months at a time. Then, you can save time and money on the cost of mesalamine.

What to Consider Before Starting Mesalamine

As with any new medication, you should consider a few things first. You can talk about your concerns with your doctor, including your worry about the cost.

Even if you have plenty of money for the medication, you should still ensure it will be safe for you to take.

Here are a few things to think about before you start mesalamine or switch varieties.

Your Medical History

You should tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you currently have and your other medications and supplements. While mesalamine is relatively safe, you don't want to risk harming yourself.

If you've had surgery recently or are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should also talk to your doctor. While there aren't any reports of negative reactions during these situations, you should still weigh the benefits and risks.

Your doctor can make a final decision on if mesalamine is right for you. Then, you can get the best version for your situation and needs.

Food and Drug Interactions

Depending on the type of mesalamine you take, you may need to take it with or without food. Your doctor can tell you if your version of the medication requires food or not.

You may also experience mesalamine drug interactions. The medication has a long list of potential interactions with other medicines. Some popular meds include:

  • Ibuprofen
  • Naproxen
  • Salicylic acid

Taking the live varicella virus vaccine can also interact with your mesalamine. You may also have more mesalamine side effects if you also take tamarind or warfarin, but your doctor may still prescribe those drugs with mesalamine if it's the best option.

Of course, you should also watch for allergies or other side effects. If you experience anything, write down your symptoms and the date and time.

You can tell your doctor about those details. And if the mesalamine is the cause, you can make any adjustments to your treatment plan.

Proper Dosage

As you start taking the medication, you also need to consider when and how to take it. Make sure you read the prescription label so that you know how many pills to take at a time or per day.

If you need to take the medicine when you're out of the house, you can pack it in a pill case. Then, you won't have to worry about forgetting it.

When it comes to mesalamine that you should take with food, you can ask your doctor what to eat. You may be able to have a small snack, or you might need to have a fuller meal.

Where to Buy It

After you get your mesalamine prescription, you need to choose where to get it. If you're looking to save money, ordering your medicine online is the best option.

You have access to more pharmacies, so you can get the best price. But before you buy online, make sure you choose a safe, trustworthy pharmacy.

That way, you can know you'll get the right medication and dosage. Buying online can be convenient, but it does come with the risk of not getting what you order.

When you get your order, make sure it has a label with your name, the medication name, and the expiration date. If you've taken mesalamine before, you can also verify that the pills look accurate.

Don't take any medication that doesn't look right. It's not worth the risk to you or your health.

What Will Mesalamine Cost You?

For many people, the mesalamine cost can make taking the medication stressful. However, you don't have to go bankrupt to afford this life-changing medication to treat ulcerative colitis.

You can save money by getting the right dosage and supply. Buying from the best pharmacy can also help you get a good deal.

Are you ready to order mesalamine? Upload your prescription now.

How Much Does Sitagliptin Cost for Diabetes With or Without Insurance?

Author , posted on March 24, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


Sitagliptin cost

One in 10 Americans has diabetes. While doctors use a range of treatments and medications to help patients control their diabetes, sitagliptin is a favorite. 

But what is sitagliptin? Why is it so popular and how much does sitagliptin cost? Here are the facts. 

Why Doctors Prescribe Sitagliptin for Diabetes

Sitagliptin, sold under the brand name Januvia, is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. DPP-4 inhibitors are a class of drugs that block the function of the DPP-4 enzyme and break down incretin. Incretin is a hormone that affects insulin production and glucose production in the liver. 

As a result, sitagliptin and other gliptin medications can help diabetics control their blood sugar. 

This is extremely important as uncontrolled blood sugar can lead or contribute to serious health problems including:

  • Neuropathy (damage to the nerves of the hands or feet)
  • Retinopathy (damage to the eyes, resulting in impaired vision or blindness)
  • Kidney disease
  • Obesity
  • Heart attacks and heart failure

Sitagliptin is typically prescribed in conjunction with diet and exercise. It is appropriate for adults with Type 2 diabetes, but it not suitable for Type 1 diabetics or individuals with diabetic ketoacidosis. As around 95 percent of diabetics have Type 2 diabetes, this makes the drug appropriate for most diabetic patients.  

Sitagliptin is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets and most users take their assigned dose of sitagliptin once per day.  

Is a Generic Version of Sitagliptin Available?

Currently, there is no generic alternative to sitagliptin available on the market. This is because the drug is relatively new. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Merck’s patent on Januvia in 2006. 

This means that while some portions of the patent have expired, much of it will remain intact until 2026. Thus, no generic version of the drug will be available until then. 

Does Insurance Cover Sitagliptin?

Insurance coverage for Januvia varies. Most Medicare plans do cover a portion of the drug. 

Actual prescription costs for Medicare enrollees vary depending on:

  • What other coverage they have, if any
  • Which Medicare Part D plan they chose to enroll in
  • Whether or not they have reached their annual deductible
  • Whether or not they have reached their plan’s annual out-of-pocket spending limit
  • What drug tier their plan assigned Januvia to
  • The actual retail cost of the drug at the time and place of purchase

Since in many cases Januvia is a higher-tier drug, users with Medicare coverage may pay higher-than-average copays for their sitagliptin prescriptions. 

Non-Medicare coverage of sitagliptin is sporadic. As with Medicare plans, when insurers do cover the drug copays are often high. 

Why Some Insurers Do Not Cover Sitagliptin

Januvia is in high demand and is available only as a brand-name drug. As such, the manufacturer, Merck, can command any price it wants for the product. In fact, an increase in demand caused the cost of the drug to nearly double in the five years between 2010 and 2015.

This makes covering sitagliptin prescriptions extremely costly and undesirable for insurers. 

As a result, some insurance companies choose not to cover it at all. Instead, they cover the generic versions of similar drugs in an effort to encourage doctors and patients to select or switch to those more affordable options instead. 

For example, insurers are much more likely to cover other gliptin medications and sulfonylureas class drugs commonly prescribed for diabetes such as: 

  • Glucophage (Metformin) 
  • Glipizide (Glucotrol)
  • Glyburide (Diabeta, Glynase PresTab)
  • Glimepiride (Amaryl)
  • Linagliptin (Tradjenta)
  • Saxagliptin (Onglyza)

Many also cover Janumet, which is a combination of Januvia and Metformin. 

Not all patients will be able to substitute one or more of these drugs for Januvia, however. Januvia is different from other, similar prescriptions in that sitagliptin side effects do not include common risks such as low blood sugar and weight gain. 

For insurance companies, however, not covering Januvia leads to enormous cost savings.  

How Much Does Sitagliptin Cost?

On average, sitagliptin costs between $500 and $650 for a one-month supply. Exact prices vary depending on:

  • Pharmacy size, location, and association
  • Whether tablets are 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg in dosage
  • How many days worth of medication users purchase at once
  • Whether users pay with cash or using an insurance plan
  • Market- and demand-based ebbs and flows in product pricing

These figures represent the cost of sitagliptin for users without insurance or where insurance does not cover the drug. It is impossible to say with any accuracy how much monthly sitagliptin cost will be for patients with insurance since coverage varies so widely and is influenced by so many different factors.

However, Januvia is almost always a top-tier drug when it is covered. Patients can expect to pay whatever the highest copay approved under their insurance plan is for each prescription. For most patients, this comes out to around $500 per month.  

This makes sitagliptin treatment one of patients’ costliest options for treating their diabetes.

Alternatives to Sitagliptin

In light of Januvia’s high costs, some patients and their doctors may choose alternative forms of diabetes management. Most start with a combination of Metformin and diet and lifestyle changes. When this is insufficient to bring blood sugar levels under control, the next step is to explore the use of sulphonylurea medications such as:

  • Diabinese
  • Glynase
  • Glucotrol
  • Amaryl
  • Tolinase

Sulphonylurea medications prompt the pancreas to produce more insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels. These drugs have been on the market since the 1950s, meaning that generic versions are readily available. This makes them ideal for cheap diabetes treatment. 

Not all patients tolerate sulphonylureas well, however. Those patients and their doctors may want to explore gliptin medications, which use a different mechanism in the body to control insulin and glucose levels.

Many older gliptin medications such as Linagliptin (Tradjenta) and Saxagliptin (Onglyza) are available in inexpensive generic versions. On average, generic gliptins cost about $20 a month. Switching to any of these other drugs, alone or in combination with Metformin, may allow users to avoid the high cost of a sitagliptin prescription. 

Why Alternatives Are Not Always an Option

For many patients, sulphonylureas and other gliptin medications are not a safe or viable option. Potentially dangerous or debilitating side-effects include:

  • Severe drops in blood sugar levels
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Dizziness and nausea
  • Confusion
  • Blurred vision
  • Chills and cold sweats
  • Increased heart rate
  • Headaches
  • Changes to appetite
  • Shakiness and slurred speech
  • Weakness and fatigue, up to and including loss of consciousness
  • Nightmares
  • Seizures
  • Debilitating joint pain
  • Weight gain
  • Allergic-type reactions

When this is the case, patients may have no choice but to choose sitagliptin treatment over all others to help them control their diabetes. 

Fortunately, it is possible to save money on your sitagliptin prescription. 

Saving Money on Your Prescription: Coupons and Rebates

Some patients may qualify for coupon or rebate programs that reduce the cost of taking sitagliptin for diabetes management. 

Merck runs a coupon program that allows eligible users to get sitagliptin for $5 a month for the first year that they take the drug. While not everyone will qualify for such steep discounts, in many cases the program can cut the cost of the drug in half. 

To qualify, patients generally must:

  • Have private insurance coverage
  • Be prescribed sitagliptin by their doctors 
  • Meet other income and eligibility requirements 

The program is not open to patients with Medicare or Medicaid. Patients enrolling in the program should also be aware that in most cases it is a limited time offer. Once the initial offer expires, they will have to pay full price for their medication. 

Doctors’ Discounts 

Patients who need help affording their medications should talk to their doctors. Many physicians and medical provider organizations receive coupons or other discount codes from pharmaceutical companies to encourage them to prescribe new or brand-name medications instead of older generic drugs. 

Your physician may be able to pass some of these coupons or codes on to you to reduce your costs. Coupons and codes may be hard copy or digital. Digital codes can be opened on your cell phone or other digital device and presented to your pharmacy at the time of purchase. 

Saving Money on Your Prescription: Patient Assistance Program Enrollment 

Patient assistance programs are similar to coupon and rebate programs with a few key differences. They are similar in that they allow patients to purchase or receive their medications at very low prices. They also tend to have very specific eligibility requirements. 

Patient assistance programs are different from coupon programs in that users can often remain enrolled for as long as:

  • Their doctors prescribe the medication for an approved condition
  • They live in a covered geographic area
  • They continue to meet eligibility requirements
  • They document their continuing eligibility periodically as required

These programs exist to get medication to users who need it most but who have no hope of affording it through other means. As such, to be eligible for enrollment, you must usually be part of a very low-income household. You must also have no health insurance or carry health insurance that does not adequately cover your medication needs. 

Additional terms and conditions may apply, so it is important to read all program guidelines carefully before assuming that you will qualify for coverage. Like coupon programs, however, patient assistance programs can sometimes prove invaluable by helping patients access sitagliptin long enough to:

  • Stabilize their condition
  • Explore alternative treatment options
  • Find alternative means of covering their medication costs 

Saving Money on Your Prescription: Savvy Shopping 

Perhaps the best way to make sitagliptin treatment affordable is to change where you fill your prescriptions. Most patients fill their prescriptions at local pharmacies out of habit more than anything else. In some cases, patients may base their choice of pharmacy on their insurance plan and its “in-network” versus “out-of-network” options and costs. 

But in situations where insurance is not covering your costs, using a pharmacy near your home is often not the best option. You can end up paying much more than necessary, particularly if you live in an area with a high cost of living.

Even if insurance will cover some of your costs, you may be able to get better pricing by switching where you fill your prescription. For many diabetic patients, specifically, buying sitagliptin online can radically cut medication costs. 

Buying online allows you to source your medications from pharmacies not only outside your immediate geographic region but also from outside the United States. This is important because pharmaceuticals are more expensive in America than they are in most other countries. 

Purchasing your medications through a certified pharmacy somewhere else via the web allows you to bypass hefty drug prices and enjoy the savings available to diabetics elsewhere. This can put even popular, brand-name drugs like Januvia within financial reach. 

As an added benefit, ordering online also allows you to have your medication delivered to your door. This saves time and money and can serve as an extra layer of safety for immunologically high-risk patients during flu season or quarantine periods. 

Saving Money on Your Prescription: Getting Creative 

In addition to all of the above, your doctor may be able to assist you in finding other creative ways to keep the costs of your sitagliptin treatment down. These may include:

  • Using sitagliptin in conjunction with other drugs to minimize how much you need
  • Writing prescriptions for larger tablets you then cut in half for the correct dose to stretch how long a bottle lasts
  • Combining sitagliptin with diet and lifestyle changes that minimize how much you need 
  • Using sitagliptin as a temporary treatment while exploring less expensive options long-term or to stabilize your condition so that other options can become viable

Making Sitagliptin Affordable

At first glance, sitagliptin cost can seem prohibitive. With the right sourcing strategy, however, sitagliptin treatment can become an affordable option for almost anyone. Learn more about how ordering online can help you get the medications you need when you need them without breaking the bank.  

How to Lower Symbicort Cost for COPD

Author , posted on March 10, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


symbicort cost

At least 16.4 million people in the US have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). That's only for diagnosed cases, so millions of others may have undiagnosed COPD.

Fortunately, although COPD is incurable, it's treatable. However, treating it cost US workers at least $5 billion a year from 2011 to 2015.

One reason for these exorbitant expenditures is the high cost of Symbicort. It's one of the most common prescription drugs used to treat COPD. It's so widely-prescribed that in 2020, its global product sales totaled $2.04 billion.

How much does Symbicort cost exactly, though, and why does it cost so much? Is there even anything you can do to minimize its burden on your finances?

We'll answer all these questions in this guide, so be sure to read on!

What Is Symbicort?

Symbicort contains budesonide, a corticosteroid or anti-inflammatory drug. It also contains formoterol, a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that relaxes the muscles. This combination then helps manage the signs and symptoms of COPD.

Symbicort received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration in 2009. That was after the FDA approved it for long-term asthma treatment in 2006. Studies have shown that this drug helps manage airflow obstruction in COPD patients.

In the US, Symbicort comes in the form of an inhaler. Its recommended dosage is twice a day; two puffs in the morning and another two puffs at night.

Symbicort is also available in 80/4.5 and 160/4.5 dosages. The first option contains 80 mcg of budesonide and 4.5 mcg of formoterol. The second has 160 mcg of budesonide and 4.5 mcg of formoterol.

Symbicort isn’t the only inhaler used to treat and manage COPD, but it’s one of the lowest-priced ones. A month’s supply of Advair, for instance, can cost almost $500 in retail pharmacies. A 30-day dose of Breo Ellipta, another common COPD inhaler, can also cost over $400.

How Much Does Symbicort Cost on Average?

On average, Symbicort costs about $250 per inhaler, which can last for about a month. With this kind of price, you'd spend around $3,000 within a year just for your COPD treatment. That's only if this branded drug's price doesn't go up, which is unlikely in the US.

Moreover, these costs can still rise depending on the pharmacy you buy from. For example, one pharmacy may only charge $235 for 120 doses of 80mcg/4.5mcg, while another may jack it up to $285.

Symbicort costs so much because the US doesn't regulate prescription drug prices. The country doesn't negotiate their prices, either. This means that drug makers are free to set whatever price they want for their products.

So, it's not only Symbicort; most other US medications are far pricier than in many other countries. For instance, Americans spend an average of $1,200 on prescription drugs each year. That's over $300 more than what the Swiss pay for.

Then, there's also neighboring Canada, long known for its awesome healthcare system. Granted, healthcare isn't really free in the Great White North. However, studies found that patented drugs here are, at the very least, 40% cheaper than in the US.

For starters, the Canadian Government has more involvement in drug pricing. It rejects medications with prices that seem to be exorbitant. These are some of the top reasons Canada's drug prices are lower than what US residents pay for.

What Can You Do to Lower Symbicort Costs Then?

Shopping online is one of the quickest ways to find cheap COPD treatment. So long as you buy medications from a reliable site online, you can save up hundreds if not thousands. These discounted prices apply to both types of Symbicort inhalers.

In any case, here's what you need to do to reap huge savings when buying Symbicort.

Purchase Symbicort Online

Buying from a licensed online pharmacy is the best way to save on your Symbicort needs. This way, you can purchase this branded COPD inhaler but still save hundreds of dollars a month. Within a year, you can save thousands if you buy Symbicort from a licensed online source.

For instance, the online price of 120 doses of Symbicort Inhaler 80mcg/4.5mcg can be as low as $86. That tallies to around $0.72 per unit, per month. Compared to the average US pharmacy cost of about $250, that's almost three times cheaper.

Since 120 doses usually last for a month, that means you'd only spend about $1,032 ($86 x 12 months) for an entire year. That's a staggering difference of almost $2,000 from Symbicort's typical pharmacy costs.

A prescription is mandatory to buy Symbicort from an online prescription delivery service. It's a legal requirement that's also for your own safety. If you find a site that doesn't require this, take that as a sign of a possible scam.

See if You Qualify for AstraZeneca's Patient Assistance Program

AstraZeneca is the pharmaceutical company behind Symbicort. It offers a patient assistance program for those who can't afford to buy its products.

If you qualify for AstraZeneca's "AZ&ME" program, you may be able to get Symbicort at no cost at all. The company will provide you access to this COPD treatment for free. However, the program comes with stringent eligibility requirements.

For starters, the AZ&ME program is only available to US residents. In addition, patients must not have prescription drug coverage (except Medicare). There's also a criterion for annual income, and going beyond this level means you won't qualify.

There are only a few exceptions in which you may still qualify even if you don't meet the above rules. For example, you may still become eligible if you've had a life-changing event within the last year. This can be a loss of a job, a reduction in income, or marriage.

Consider Generic Budesonide/Formoterol

On average, generic drug prices can be 80% to 85% lower than branded drugs. However, their formulations are the same as the branded versions. Meaning, they are just as effective as the more exorbitant branded-name drugs.

The primary reason for the lower cost of generic drugs is that they cost less to make. For starters, there's no longer a need to research and develop the drug formulation itself. The branded version has already established the formula's safety and efficacy.

As such, generic drug makers spend a lot less on manufacturing their products. For this reason, generics are far less expensive than the "original" branded drugs.

So, how much cheaper is generic budesonide/formoterol then? Well, if you buy your supply from a licensed, reputable source, it can cost as low as $34 for 120 doses of 80mcg/4.5mcg. That's about 2.5 times cheaper than the online price of the branded version!

By going with generic budesonide/formoterol, your yearly costs would only sum up to $408. That's over $600 less than what you'll otherwise pay for branded Symbicort sold online. That's also more than seven times cheaper than the typical US pharmacy rates.

Keep in mind that generic budesonide/formoterol still requires a valid doctor's prescription. So, be sure to talk to your doctor first if you want to make the switch. This way, your physician can issue the appropriate documentation.

Save Even More When You Buy in Bulk

Most countries, including the US and Canada, only allow consumers to buy medications for up to 90 days. Meaning, the most you can order in one go is a 90-day supply. With Symbicort (branded or generic), the maximum "supply" allowed by law is 360 doses.

One reason you'd want 360 doses in a single order is that it costs less than a 120-dose one. For example, 360 doses of the branded Symbicort Inhaler 80mcg/4.5mcg only costs about $180. By contrast, the 120-dose variant would cost you $258 over the course of three months.

So, going for the three months' worth of supply means you can save about $78. That's an additional $300 of savings for an entire year.

Generic budesonide/formoterol is also available in 360 doses. This one costs about $72, which can net you a savings of $30 within a span of three months.

Buying in bulk is also an effective way to minimize the risks of skipped doses. Keep in mind that missing COPD treatment can make your symptoms worse. It can even be life-threatening if missed for long periods.

Besides, most inhalers (including Symbicort) and other medications expire only after a year. Some drugs can even retain their 100% potency for up to four years. Either way, this means you don't have to worry about your COPD inhaler expiring before you can use it.

More Savings With Digital Coupons

The best online prescription delivery services offer discount coupons for even more savings. For starters, you'll find coupons for new customers, which can give you a discount of $10 to $20 from your first order.

On your next order, be sure to look for and use a Symbicort discount coupon. This can help you slash off at least $20 on your COPD inhaler.

Pay With Cash

Some insured drugs cost more than their uninsured counterparts. So, you might end up paying more if you're buying Symbicort through a policy.

As such, it's always a smart move to compare the uninsured vs. insured cost of your prescriptions. This way, you can see for yourself if paying for cash is the cheaper way to get your Symbicort supply.

Buy All Medications You Need in One Go

Studies found that two in three COPD patients also have a co-existing heart condition. Many people with COPD also have diabetes, depression, or both.

If you have other health issues alongside COPD, you're likely taking other medications. In this case, you might want to buy all your prescriptions online from the same source. Buying them together can help you save more since you only have to pay a fixed shipping rate.

Most reputable online prescription delivery services charge less than $10 for shipping. It's a fixed rate, so the total weight of the parcel won't matter. You can order up to three months' worth of supply for each of your prescription drugs.

Now, compare that to the transportation costs of going to your local pharmacy. Also, consider the time you need to spend going to a pharmacy, waiting in a long line, and then going back home. All that adds to your costs, expenses that you could otherwise avoid if you order your meds online.

Extra Perk of Buying Symbicort Online: Better Adherence

About a quarter of the US population takes at least three prescription drugs. More than one in 10 are even on five or more prescription medications!

Aside from common conditions that exist with COPD, you may be battling other health woes. Either way, all these other drugs (and their costs) are likely making it hard for you to adhere to each one of them. For instance, you may be skipping one of your twice-a-day COPD inhaler doses in the hopes of cutting costs.

However, failure to take Symbicort as instructed can make your condition progress. The same may occur if you skip the meds for your other health maladies.

Worse, not adhering to your prescriptions can put you at risk of even higher medical costs. For example, you may get hospitalized due to severe COPD symptoms. You may have to rush to the ER if you experience severe wheezing or breathing difficulty.

A licensed online prescription delivery service can help you reduce such risks. After all, the lower cost of their products won't force you to skip your doses anymore. So, by helping you adhere to your medications, they can also help you become healthier.

Breathe Easier With Lower-Cost Symbicort Inhalers

There you have it, your ultimate Symbicort cost and price guide. As you can see, there are plenty of ways to reduce your COPD treatment expenses. So long as you follow all the tips and tricks we've listed, you can be on your way to breathing easier and better.

Ready to learn more about high-quality online prescription delivery services? Then please know that our team here at PricePro Pharmacy can help! Get in touch with us now so we can help you get started in ordering your prescription drugs online.

Want to Save Big on Your Regular Prescriptions? Choose an Online Canadian Pharmacy

Author , posted on March 6, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


save big

Americans spend an average of $1,200 per person on pharmaceuticals annually. This average is the highest in the world.

The United States has the largest national biopharmaceutical market in the world. Yet, the cost of prescription drug prices is significantly higher in the United States than its market competitors.

Prescription medications can add up to thousands of dollars per year. Insurance does not always mean consumers can save big on their drug costs, either.

If you are to get sick—even in the short term—these costs only increase further. Plus, there is always the risk that insurance may not cover the medications you need, leaving you to foot the bill out-of-pocket.

Luckily, there are a few tricks to lowering the cost of your medications. Shopping online from an online pharmacy in Canada is the way of the future. Not only is it easier and more convenient, but it can help you save big on medication costs.

It’s easy to order right from the comfort of your own home. From there, the medications ship right to your door.

Keep reading to learn how you can save big on time and money by purchasing from an online Canadian pharmacy.

The Rising Costs of Prescription Medications

The ever-increasing costs of healthcare in the United States has been one of the most heated political issues to date. This has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting issues and inequalities in the American healthcare system.

In particular, many Americans are tired of paying large co-pays for doctor’s visits and prescription drugs.

The costs of prescription drugs can be 80 to 150 percent higher in the US—despite the fact that Americans do not consume more drugs on average than their counterparts.

This was one of Donald Trump’s talking points during his 2016 presidential campaign. He promised to allow Medicare to negotiate prescription prices with pharmaceutical suppliers. While other countries practice this, it was not permissible under US law.

Trump also touched on a plan to import these medications from other countries.

This allowed pharmacies to save big, with savings achieved through this process to then be passed on to the consumer. Furthermore, it would also incentivize American drug manufacturers to lower prices to remain competitive.

These talks again returned in 2020, with the presentation of Trump’s “America First Health Plan.” This plan officially granted access to importing prescription medications from Canada.

Even with this news, many Americans are unaware of the option to buy medications from an online Canadian pharmacy. Especially with the age of the internet, it is easier now more than ever to shop around and save big on prescription drug costs. 

Save Big on Your Prescriptions

With such high costs in American prescription drugs, you may find yourself wondering how to save on prescriptions. There are a few key steps you can take as a consumer to save big on the drugs you need to stay healthy.

Generic vs. Brand Name

When shopping for prescription medication, there are often many different options for the same drug. You may see both a generic and a brand name version of the same medication.

This can be confusing to consumers—what is the difference, and which one is the best match for my needs?

Brand name medications are what you hear in the commercials, or see in a magazine advertisement. Pharmaceutical manufacturers come up with these drugs and go through the entire life cycle.

This begins with research and development, and all sorts of testing. It continues with the FDA approval process. This life cycle costs millions of dollars and typically takes many years.

Once approved, pharmaceutical companies spend even more money on advertising their new product. They develop commercials and print advertisements to get the message out to the general public.

Plus, they send drug reps to doctor’s offices and hospitals all over the country to market the product directly to medical professionals.

After all this, pharmaceutical companies are rewarded for their hard work and innovation. They enjoy patents and exclusive sales rights to protect their investments.

These protections cover the development phases, as well as entry into the market. But after a period of time, these protections expire. At this point, other companies are free to enter the market with the same medication.

Of course, they cannot use the same name as it is trademarked to the initial manufacturer. So secondary pharmaceutical companies will produce a generic version of the drug.

It is essentially the same chemical compounds, manufactured in the same manner as the brand name version. It just does not carry the same recognizable name.

Are They Equal?

There tends to be a stigma that generic drugs are somehow less effective than the brand name. But, the FDA assesses generic drugs under the same quality, strength, and purity standards as brand name medications.

On a rare occasion, the generic option might be slightly different. Plus, there is not always a generic option as newer medications that still hold permits might be preventing a generic form from hitting the market.

But, more often than not, they tend to be the same. The differences between the two, if any, can usually be attributed to the filler material used in the product.

It’s important to consult with your doctor before making any medication-related decisions. Even if they do not recommend the generic version—or there isn't one available—they may be able to locate a cheaper alternative.

Look for Big Savings With a Canadian Online Pharmacy

With the constantly increasing costs of medication that are not always covered by health insurance, it really is a no-brainer. Americans can save up to 80 percent by shopping for drugs with a Canadian online pharmacy. 

With such great savings available, many Americans are left scratching their heads. How is it possible that prescription drug prices can be so much cheaper in a country so close? Does this mean the drugs are any less effective?

Luckily, the answer is simple. 

Why Are Drug Prices So Much Cheaper in Canada, Anyway?

One of the main reasons for lower costs of Canadian prescription medications is due to the relative lack of regulation on American manufacturers. 

Other countries (like Canada) place restrictions on the prices that pharmaceutical companies can charge their customers. In contrast, the US lets the market set the price.

This results in significantly higher prices for many medications, despite the fact that one-third of the biopharmaceutical market is based in the US.

The American pharmaceutical manufacturers argue that they need to charge such high prices to justify the research and development behind these medications. Without the astronomical pricing on American drugs, they would not be able to fund the expensive research projects needed to generate new medications.

In Canada specifically, the federal government covers the cost of most healthcare. Thus, a government board decides what price they will pay for prescription drugs that their citizens need. 

With rising costs, more and more Americans are becoming increasingly frustrated with high costs and are looking to buy from outside sources.

Is It Legal to Buy From an Online Canadian Pharmacy?

Americans are well-known for suffering the high costs of healthcare. This does not stop with prescription drug prices.

Some Americans may feel apprehensive about purchasing drugs online. Even more so when these medications come from another country. 

Actually, it is both legal and permissible to save big by ordering prescription drugs from an online Canadian pharmacy. You can upload your prescription and complete the order online or over-the-phone.

If you do not have a copy of your prescription on hand, Canadian pharmacists can reach out to your doctor's office directly to have a copy faxed over. From there, the drugs will be delivered right to your door.

You can also buy in bulk, and set up automatic refills. This way, you can receive a 90-day supply of your medication each time—and it will automatically refill itself. Thus, you never have to worry about running out of the medication you need.

This allows consumers to save big when purchasing prescription medications.  Plus, it saves the time of having to drive to the pharmacy to pick up prescriptions. Especially given COVID-19 concerns, any fewer trips in public, the better.

How Do I Know It Is Legitimate?

Even though prescription medications are significantly cheaper in Canada, it does not mean they are of any lower quality than their American counterparts. 

Packaging requirements may change between countries. But, the active ingredient is still the same.

This means that what makes the medicine work is just the same as what you would buy at an American pharmacy, even if the box looks a little different. Plus, with a trusted source like PricePro Pharmacy, you never have to worry about quality or authenticity.

When shopping around for prescription prices online, there are a few steps you can take to ensure the safety and quality of your prescription medication sale.

Prescription Always Required

Despite the conveniences of an online pharmacy, they still need the same information that an in-person pharmacy would need. This is especially true of the prescriptions themselves.

Any online pharmacy that offers prescription medication without the need for a valid script written by a licensed physician is likely suspicious. 

Of course, over-the-counter medication can often be purchased from an online pharmacy, as well. These will not need prescriptions.

Though, it is just as important to remain vigilant when purchasing these drugs, as well. It’s possible they could contain unsafe ingredients if purchased from an untrustworthy source.

While they will not ask for a prescription for these medications, consumers should still conduct a bit of research to ensure the legitimacy of the source.

Properly Staffed Pharmacy

A valid online pharmacy must be licensed or approved by the applicable state pharmacy board, or other equivalents. They also must keep a licensed pharmacist on staff, who is available to answer any questions or address any concerns about your medications.

Correct Medication

The prescription medications should always have a label with your name on it—spelled correctly. If the label looks suspicious, it probably is. 

Other warning signs on the medication itself include:

  • Mismatched dosage: the dosage and frequency on the label should match that of your prescription
  • Unusually shaped, sized, or colored pills
  • Missing or incorrect expiration date
  • Missing label altogether 

How to Evaluate Prescription Medications Online

Before purchasing any medications or medical supplies online, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor. They are experts in the field, and can best determine what best fits your circumstances.

It is equally as important to be a diligent and vigilant online shopper. You should only order medication from trusted prescription sources. This way, you know the drugs are safe and not expired or counterfeit.

Read reviews and testimonials from verified customers before purchasing anything, to ensure you will only receive quality and authentic products.

This is true whether it be prescription or over-the-counter medications that do not need a prescription.

The FDA has also published information on best practices for purchasing medication from an online pharmacy.

How to Locate the Best Online Canadian Pharmacies

There are many benefits to using an online Canadian pharmacy to save big on your prescription drugs. 

When searching for the best online Canadian pharmacies, be sure to do your research. Check the reviews and testimonials for each source, and check with your state licensing board to ensure they are certified.

For big savings on the drugs you need to stay healthy, check out PricePro Pharmacy. Contact PricePro Pharmacy now for more information on how you can save big with an online Canadian pharmacy—even from the US!

Who Can Get Prescription Drugs From an Online Canadian Pharmacy?

Author , posted on March 2, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


prescription drugs

Experts estimated global prescription drug spending to be at least $1.3 trillion in 2020. Of this, they projected the United States alone to account for almost 27%, or $350 billion. They also forecasted an annual global increase of 3% to 6%.

All these demonstrate how crucial prescription drugs are in today's society. However, they are as expensive (if not more so) as they are important to public health.

This is especially true in the US, where consumers spend over $1,000 each year on prescription meds alone. In fact, the per capita drug expenditure in the US has risen by over 1,000% from 1960 to 2017.

If you've grown tired of the high cost of prescription drugs, you might want to order them online. An online accredited Canadian pharmacy can help lower your health costs.

However, ordering prescriptions online still comes with a few requirements. Knowing these can help you figure out if online medication delivery services are a good fit for you.

We'll talk about who can take advantage of these online prescription drug services, so be sure to read on!

Patients With a Valid Prescription

Patients with a valid physician's prescription can order from an online Canadian pharmacy. The keyword here is "valid," which means that the prescription must be from a licensed doctor. Also, a prescription is only valid for one year from the date a doctor wrote and issued it.

In the US, licensed doctors are medical degree holders with a state-issued license. The law doesn't require them to take the board certification, but most doctors do. All in all, there are only a little more than 1.02 million professionally active physicians in the US as of 2020.

If you live in the US, your prescription is valid if it comes from one of these active doctors. A legit online pharmacy always confirms physician identities. Pharmacy representatives validate each doctor's name, signature, and license number.

Other clinicians, such as licensed physician assistants (PAs), may also write prescriptions. The scope of their prescribing power depends on the state they work in, though.

For instance, PAs in California and Idaho can write prescriptions for Schedule II to V drugs. However, in Arizona, PAs can only prescribe up to a 30-day supply of Schedule II and III drugs. They can't issue refills without a supervising physician, either.

Please note, too, that the prescription itself must be in writing, either on paper or in digital form. What's important is that it's on a legal, official prescription document. These have the RX label on them, the doctor's complete information, and their signature.

Why Are Prescriptions Necessary?

Prescription medicines usually treat major or more severe medical conditions, such as diabetes. For this reason, they tend to be more potent than over-the-counter drugs. Therefore, the primary reason for requiring prescriptions is consumer safety.

There's also the issue of medication misuse, regarded as "illicit drug use" in the US. In 2018, almost a fifth of people aged 12 and older in the US committed this act. This problem would be far bigger if valid prescriptions aren't mandatory.

Valid prescriptions also help patients safely treat, manage, or recover from their illnesses. After all, these documents also contain directions for the medication's use. They indicate how many times a day (and sometimes, even the time) patients must take their medicine.

Are Prescriptions Mandatory for All Medicines?

Please be aware that fake online pharmacies do exist. One surefire way to tell you're dealing with a scammer is if they tell you that you don't need to give them a copy of your Rx.

A written prescription is always needed for all prescription medicines. The only medicines that don't are "over-the-counter" drugs. Dietary or nutritional supplements also don't require a valid Rx.

So, always be on your toes when shopping for medications online. Buy only from an online pharmacy that employs a licensed pharmacist. You must be able to speak to the pharmacist whenever you contact the pharmacy itself.

How Do You Send a Prescription to an Online Pharmacy?

The easiest way is to upload a digitized copy of the Rx itself to the site. Don't worry, as a reputable online pharmacy uses SSL website certificates. These are web technologies that allow for safe and secure online connections.

You can also email or snail mail a copy of your Rx to the pharmacy itself. Keep in mind that legit online pharmacies also run out of brick and mortar facilities. This means they have physical locations that you can physically visit and mail your Rx to.

Consumers Who Need Access to Quality Yet Affordable Meds

The US spends at least twice more per person on health expenditures as many other OECD countries. For instance, in 2018, the per capita health spending in the US amounted to $10,637. Of this, $1,397 went toward prescription drugs and medical goods.

On the other hand, the average health spending of comparable countries was only $5,527 per capita. Such countries include Canada, the UK, and Sweden, to name a few.

One reason Canada's drug prices are lower than that of the US is that the US has no drug price regulations. Moreover, the US doesn't "haggle" with drugmakers over price appropriation. By contrast, Canada (as well as other comparable countries) steps in if a drug seems too pricey.

So, if you no longer want to deal with exorbitantly-priced meds, you might want to buy them online. Just be sure to choose one of the best online pharmacies in the Great White North. This means ordering prescriptions only from a certified and licensed Canadian company.

People in Need of Prescription Drugs for Personal Use

Each country has various drug importation laws in place, but all aim to keep illegal drug sales at bay. More than that, these stringent rules help keep residents safe from dangerous drugs. Adulterated medicines and supplements are an example of such harmful products.

In some cases, the US may allow personal importation of prescription medicines. The keyword here is "personal," so it shouldn't be for "further sale or distribution" into the US market. If you bought it under your name, then you must be the one to take those medications.

Moreover, the medicine must not come with an unreasonable risk, especially safety. The consumer (in this case, the patient) must also put into writing that the medicine is for personal use. Another key requirement is that the drugs' quantity doesn't go beyond a 90-day supply.

With that said, be sure you only order a 90-day supply of your meds from an online Canadian pharmacy. Again, you'd need a valid doctor's prescription for this. Your prescription must also say that you can get at least a three-month supply of the medicines.

Individuals in Need of Refills but Wish to Avoid the Crowds

The CDC believes that the mutant B.1.1.7. COVID-19 strain is now present in most states. It's the strain believed to be 50% more contagious than the original or "parent" strain. Experts are still figuring out if this strain can lead to more severe symptoms or illnesses.

In any case, this is a stark reminder of how it's best to stay at home as much as possible. However, this can be tricky if you need to get an emergency prescription refill. After all, you shouldn't skip your meds, especially not if it's for a chronic health condition.

The good news is that reputable online Canadian pharmacies offer next-day delivery services. If you are in Canada, be sure to place your order on or before 12:00 PM Pacific Time. You can then request the pharmacy to ship it to you the following day.

If you live outside of the Great White North, order at least a week before you run out of supplies. Canadian Express takes about three to five business days from the shipment date.

If you don't need an emergency refill but still want to avoid going out, a regular shipment may suffice. This usually takes between seven and 12 business days from the date of shipment. Tracked shipments are a bit faster, as these take only about five to 10 business days.

Patients Who Want to Ensure 100% Medication Adherence

In one survey, 53% of 1,001 patients admitted to purposefully missing a prescription dose due to its cost. Millennials were at the top of the list, with 61% of them saying they missed a dose for this reason. Middle-aged patients weren't that far off, with 57% of them revealing they've done the same.

This study, along with many others, proves how the high cost of drugs isn't doing much to help people get better. After all, medication adherence is key to controlling chronic health problems. It's also vital in treating acute or short-term illnesses.

The Consequences of Non-Adherence

Non-adherence can be dangerous, even deadly to those with chronic illnesses. It may also be racking up at least $100 billion in preventable medical expenditures each year. 

Another common consequence of poor medication adherence is drug resistance. A perfect example is the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). WHO now considers AMR as one of the world's top 10 public health threats.

AMR occurs due to misuse and abuse of antimicrobial medicines. One can "misuse" them by not completing the antimicrobial prescription.

Either way, pathogens that develop AMR cause infections that are harder to treat. They also increase disease transmission, so more people get sick from them.

Non-adherence can also give rise to multiple drug resistance. This can happen if one takes a certain drug for a short period and then takes a different one right after.

So, for your own safety, please be sure always to take your meds as prescribed! This way, you can reduce your risks of developing more serious conditions. 

How an Online Canadian Pharmacy Can Help

Meds from reputable online Canadian pharmacies can be up to 80% cheaper than US prices. They also offer various discounts and deals, such as those for first-time buyers. You'll also find coupons for most branded drugs, most of which offer savings from $10 to $20.

Since these prescription drugs cost far less, you won't have to force yourself to skip a dose again. You can avoid putting yourself and your health at risk due to non-adherence. Best of all, you can take better control of your health once more.

Those Looking for a Discreet Way to Order ED Medications

Researchers estimate that erectile dysfunction affects 3% to 76.5% of men worldwide. However, the actual numbers can be much higher, seeing as some may choose not to reach out to their doctor about it. One possible reason is that their ED may be a big source of embarrassment.

This is why some experts suggest that only 10% of men with ED receive treatment.

The thing is, having ED can be a vicious cycle, as worrying about it can aggravate symptoms. On the other hand, ED can result from excessive levels of stress. What's more, age is not the only cause; there are at least 10 other possible ED culprits.

The good news is that ED is manageable and even treatable with medication. In some cases, even just major lifestyle changes can already reverse the symptoms. However, since underlying conditions can also cause ED, it's still best to see your doctor.

If your physician diagnoses you with ED, you don't have to go to a local pharmacy to get your meds. As with most other prescription medicines, you can order them online. So long as you choose a legit Canadian pharmacy, you can expect quick and discreet delivery of your ED meds.

Don't Make Your Health Wait Any Longer

Online Canadian pharmacies can help out almost anyone who needs low-cost prescription drugs. This can be you, provided you have a valid prescription and that you intend to use them for your own well-being. Just make sure you don't order more than a 90-day supply at a time to avoid border issues.

If you order from us here at PricePro Pharmacy, we'll help you get access to low-cost prescription meds. Connect with us now, and we'll be happy to assist you in regaining control of your health!

Why E-Pharmacy Services Are the Future

Author , posted on February 26, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


e-pharmacy

Over the past two decades, we've watched e-commerce grow and thrive. Now, market predictions show e-pharmacy services becoming the next biggest thing in online purchasing habits. 

What exactly is an e-pharmacy and why are e-pharmacies becoming a normal, crucial part of the day-to-day lives of so many Canadians and Americans? 

What long-time e-pharmacy clients have always known is that buying your prescriptions from an e-pharmacy can save you hundreds of dollars every year. What we're learning from the increasing reliance on digital shopping and the Coronavirus pandemic is that e-pharmacies offer solutions that brick and mortar pharmacies can't match.

To learn more about e-pharmacies and why we can expect to see them dominate the pharmaceutical purchasing field in the near future, keep reading.

What, Exactly, Is an e-Pharmacy?

First thing's first: before we explain why e-pharmacies are the healthcare solution of the future, let's talk about what, exactly, they are.

e-pharmacies are a lot like regular pharmacies. When you head to a brick and mortar pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens, you are required to show a prescription in order to receive your medication. You might bring it with you and return at a later time to pick up your filled prescription or you might have your doctor fax it over in advance.

The primary difference between an e-pharmacy and a brick and mortar pharmacy? With an e-pharmacy, you can do all of this from the comfort of your own home. At PricePro Pharmacy, we allow you to place your order over the phone or online via our live chat function. 

It is worth noting that for the safety of our clients, PricePro Pharmacy does not carry all prescription medications. Higher risk or potentially addictive medications may not be available, as we believe that it is important to have thorough, face-to-face discussions about these medications before taking them. 

That being said, you'll find tons of popular medications in our e-Pharmacy, from Viagra to Chantix. Whenever possible, we offer generic options to increase your savings even more.

Now that you know what an e-pharmacy is, let's take a look at why e-pharmacies are growing in popularity.

Why Are e-Pharmacy Services the Future of Healthcare?

More and more clients are heading online to fill their prescriptions and this shift to e-pharmacy services is here to stay. Read on to find out why purchasing prescriptions through an e-pharmacy may be the solution you didn't know you needed!

Hundreds of Dollars of Savings

Americans, in particular, are up against a seriously faulty healthcare system. The average American spends over $1,200 a year on the prescriptions they need to maintain their health and live a full, happy life. That number doesn't reflect how much you may end up spending if you need multiple medications year-round or don't have access to good health insurance.

e-pharmacies are able to keep their costs low, charging as much as 80% less than American pharmacies for popular, high-demand medications. How is this possible?

As we mentioned earlier, we try to make generic medications available as often as possible. Because generic medications did not involve costly studies and research, they cost a fraction of what name brand medications cost. 

e-pharmacies also don't have to pay as many employees or spend as much on physical locations as brick and mortar pharmacies do. Because we ship to cities all over Canada and the US, we can provide your pharmaceutical needs from a small number of actual, physical locations, meaning less overhead for us.

Plus, at PricePro Pharmacy, we scour the internet for medication coupons that you can apply to your medication right from our website!

Easy Access to Licensed Pharmacists

You may not have to head to a brick and mortar location to fill your prescriptions with an e-pharmacy, but that doesn't mean that you're not dealing with reliable, licensed pharmacists. If you wish to speak with a licensed pharmacist to discuss your medication and potential side effects, you can do that easily! All you have to do is call our Customer Rep hotline and ask to schedule a consultation with one of our many licensed pharmacists who will get back to you as soon as possible.

No-Contact Prescription Filling

If there's one thing that the Coronavirus pandemic has taught us, it's that sometimes, no-contact is better than face-to-face encounters. In fact, we've seen a huge increase in Canadian and American clients in the past nine months as more and more people look for ways to limit their exposure in their daily lives.

Of course, the pandemic won't last forever. Will limiting your contact with other people still matter?

Ultimately, we've all learned the importance of slowing the spread of viruses of all kinds. No matter what happens after the pandemic, we will always face things like flu season! Being able to get your medications without exposing yourself to viruses (and even the common cold) is always a good option to have.

Live-Chat Features for Assistance

Some consumers shy away from online shopping because they prefer having assistance when they need it. Not everyone wants to put something in their cart and buy it without talking to a representative at first, and we can understand why!

At PricePro Pharmacy, we offer live-chat features to ensure that all of our clients feel comfortable and informed. Whether you have questions about pricing, insurance, or our prescription filling process, someone is always ready to answer.

Have questions outside of our customer service working hours? No problem! Send us an email or leave us a voicemail and someone will answer you first thing in the morning. 

Insurance Reimbursement for US Clients

Unfortunately, Canadian e-pharmacies are not yet equipped to take US insurance. However, that doesn't mean that you can't get your prescriptions at an affordable cost.

Between our low-cost medications and coupons, many US clients find our pricing to remain competitive in spite of our inability to take insurance. This makes PricePro Pharmacy a great solution for anyone who finds themselves temporarily uninsured but still in need of filling their prescriptions.

If you do have health insurance, you may still be able to get the cost of your prescriptions covered when purchasing them through an e-pharmacy. After completing your transaction, send a copy of your receipt to your insurance and inquire about reimbursement. While not all insurance companies will comply, many will gladly cover the reduced cost of prescriptions filled through e-pharmacy services. 

Steady Supply to Meet the Demand

Have you ever tried to purchase a medication, whether it's prescription or OTC, only to discover that your pharmacy is out of stock? It can be very unnerving to be unable to access the medications that you need. For patients across the globe, this issue became more pressing during the pandemic as more and more people began to panic-stock everything from pain killers to insulin.

Oftentimes, these shortages are localized to a specific area, whether it's a state or a city. e-pharmacies allow you to outsource your medication needs. In fact, many of our first-time clients come to us in exactly this quandary and end up sticking with us when they find out how many other benefits we can offer!

No More Waiting Around

Do you feel like you rarely find the time to relax, explore your hobbies, and recharge? If so, you're not alone. A recent study found that on average, our American friends have an estimated four hours of free time per week.

For individuals who are in school, working multiple jobs, or providing care for children or elderly loved ones, free time is especially important. Who wants to spend unnecessary time waiting for a prescription refill when you could simply place an order online and let your medications come to you?

In an age where time is more valuable than ever, e-pharmacies provide an important time-saving solution.

How Can You Find a Safe and Reliable e-Pharmacy?

If you are new to e-pharmacy services, you may feel a bit skeptical. Is it really safe and reliable to have prescriptions filled online and sent to your door?

Let's take a look at some of the factors you should look for to ensure that your e-pharmacy is a trustworthy place providing top-notch pharmaceutical care.

Prescriptions Required

You couldn't walk into a brick and mortar pharmacy and purchase a non-OTC medication without a prescription. When it comes to e-pharmacies, that same rule should always apply.

If an online pharmacy allows you to purchase medications without a prescription that you otherwise could not get over the counter, do not make any purchases with them. This is an unethical practice that indicates that there may be more red flags, like poor cybersecurity and unverified medications. Always look for an e-pharmacy that requires prescriptions from a certified medical practitioner.

Third-Party Certification of Good Business Practices

Some of the distrust you may feel for e-pharmacies is rooted in very valid problems. Recent studies found that of the dozens of trustworthy e-pharmacies that have been in business for the past several years, there are even more that are operating in unprofessional and unethical ways.

In order to protect consumers, PharmacyChecker was developed in the mid-2000s. If an e-pharmacy is PharmacyChecker certified, that means that it has been thoroughly vetted by a third-party agency. PricePro Pharmacy is proud to be PharmacyChecker certified, and we maintain our certification by working with only the most qualified individuals and selling well-researched and approved medications.

Personal Information Protection

One major concern you should always have when shopping online is whether or not your personal information is protected by an online business. This is especially true when it comes to e-pharmacies who are handling sensitive medical information.

PricePro Pharmacy is verified by both Trust Guard and Norton. We do not release any of your medical information to outside sources and we protect your payment information, as well. When you purchase your medications with PricePro Pharmacy, you can rest assured that all of your personal information is protected and your privacy is intact.

Satisfaction Guarantee, No Questions Asked

Customer service is something that all businesses should prioritize, even if it comes at a cost to their bottom line. You should be able to make purchases knowing that if you are not 100% satisfied, your money will be returned to you, no questions asked.

PricePro Pharmacy offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee to all of our clients, both new and established. What does this mean?

If you are not happy with your experience with PricePro Pharmacy, you can return your medications through the mail for proper and safe disposal. We will issue a full refund upon receiving your shipment. We never want any of our clients to feel that they have spent money and not received what they are due, whether that relates to our service or your medications. 

See How an e-Pharmacy Can Change Your Prescription Buying Habits Today

We've learned a lot during the Coronavirus pandemic, from how much we once took health and hygiene for granted to the importance of easy access to necessities. In the process, e-pharmacy services became more popular, and all predictions indicate that that surge in trust and reliance is here to stay.

If you're ready to switch to online pharmacy services, it's important that you work with an e-pharmacy that you can trust. PricePro Pharmacy is PharmacyChecker certified and we go out of our way to operate with full transparency. If you have any questions about our medications, pricing, or process, contact us today.

It’s Cheaper; And 12 Other Reasons to Buy Canadian Drugs Online

Author , posted on January 27, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


canadian drugs online

Are you tired of paying top dollar for whatever your local pharmacy decides to charge you for your medications? Have you ever considered getting your prescription from an online Canadian pharmacy?

Purchasing Canadian drugs online is a safe, seamless process that can save you time and money. You can now buy almost any medication through a licensed online pharmacy that is safe and secure.

Mail-order pharmacies save consumers billions of dollars every year. But there are many other reasons besides saving money to switch to an online pharmacy north of the border. Here are ten to consider.

1. Convenience

During the COVID pandemic, online ordering has exploded. This includes food, home goods, medications, and almost any category you can think of. Home delivery can be a huge convenience for people who are not mobile and for those who live a long distance from stores.

If you live in a rural area, proximity to a pharmacy can be a factor in accessing your medication, especially ones that need refilling on a regular basis. Most physical pharmacies have limited hours as well, which can be a big disadvantage for people who work atypical hours.

Telemedicine also has increased this year, for safety reasons. Having to make a trip to the pharmacy can negate the benefits of staying home and not venturing out into public. Online pharmacies help cut these risks.

With Canadian online pharmacies, you can order almost any time of day and from the comfort of your own home. And there are no lines to wait in.

Another convenience factor is not having to worry about retaining a copy of your prescription or producing it every time you need a refill. The online pharmacy saves this information so that it is ready every time you need to reorder.

A final convenience factor is that you can get all your medications in a single place. This can be a huge benefit especially for larger households with many prescriptions taken in varying increments.

2. Ease of Ordering

The only thing you need for online ordering is a valid prescription and an Internet connection. Many companies have an online portal for uploading your Rx. There is usually the option to email or mail it in as well.

Reputable online pharmacy companies will have requirements for submitting prescriptions. The most common is that it must be the original. But most doctors’ offices are familiar with online pharmacy procedures and can get you the appropriate Rx upon request.

An alternative is to provide your doctor’s contact information to the online pharmacy. This way, they can directly contact your physician.

Another convenient aspect of online pharmaceutical purchasing is the ease of refilling prescriptions. With many companies, you can set up automatic reminders and reorder your medications with a few clicks of the button.

3. Lower Prices

About eight percent of adults say that they skip taking prescribed medications because they cannot afford them. And, in lower-income populations, that percentage can much higher, as much as 14 percent.

Due to their wide pharmaceutical sourcing capabilities, online companies can provide discounted prices on prescriptions. This includes brand-name and generic drugs alike. They also save money by being able to accommodate larger quantities for certain drugs.

Even if a prescription allows dispensing a certain larger dose at one time, a brick-and-mortar pharmacy may not have that amount on hand. Since there are processing costs for each prescription, smaller batches end up being more expensive in the long run.

That is because you have to fill them more often. Online pharmacies mitigate these costs by sending out larger orders.

Similar benefits exist for the availability of cheaper generic alternatives to drugs. With physical pharmacies, you might access generic drugs if they are available. With online pharmacies’ broad access, it is more likely that they can offer this alternative for any given medication.

Finally, like many retailers, many online pharmacies offer coupons. Loyalty points and referral discounts are other common cost-savings programs.

4. Price Comparison

A recent Consumer Reports study showed that online stores and stores and pharmacies charge a wide variety of prices for the same drugs. One five-drug list of prescriptions cost about $800 more in some stores than in others. There were even large discrepancies between warehouse retailers' prices.

When you visit a physical pharmacy, the price they charge is the price you pay. And costs can vary between pharmacies, even for the same drugs. But determining the price would mean you had to visit each one. And you would need to see what your insurance covers and what out-of-pocket costs would be.

With online pharmaceutical ordering, you can compare prices of different brands and products within minutes. Also, some online pharmacies may have price-matching guarantees. So, you know you are paying the lowest price no matter what.

5. Product Availability

Have you ever had a prescription called into a pharmacy and they do not stock it? You may have had to travel to or wait for your pharmacy to receive it from another location?

Since most online services are a network of pharmacies, there are rarely drugs they do not carry. And, since online pharmacies work with many manufacturers across the globe, there are rarely medications they cannot access.

Ordering medications through Canadian mail pharmacies is like ordering other products online. It is easy to browse information about their products, including brand name and generic drugs.

Online ordering also makes it easier to search for medication or condition. This can be a helpful way to find out more about what other drugs are available for your specific needs, as well as compare costs.

Also, there is a time-savings aspect to this. You do not have to wait at a desk or drive around town trying to find your medication. You can see in real-time what is available and know exactly when it ships and when you will receive it.

6. Consultation

When you go to a physical pharmacy, you always have the chance to consult with a licensed pharmacist about your medication. But you may have to do so at the front of a long line of other customers. It can be rushed and not completely private.

What if you could get the same kind of advice and ask the same questions from the comfort of your own home? Online drug companies provide chat or phone consultations with a licensed pharmacist. And you can schedule these at your convenience.

Also, when you are purchasing drugs at a brick-and-mortar store, pharmacy personnel usually are the only people you deal with. They are busy and may have little time for questions beyond those about your medication or treatment. After all, that is their primary job.

But imagine if you had access to staff that could talk to you about pricing options or answer any questions you had. Online pharmacies may provide customer service personnel that handle all non-medical aspects of your order.

Staff can answer questions about delivery speed and reordering. They might assist you in setting up a new account, or help you change contact or payment information.

Also, online pharmacists and customer-care personnel are available during a wider range of hours. For instance, an online company may provide on-call pharmacists or customer service staff. They may also have staff dedicated to helping you save money by finding the cheapest medications.

7. Privacy

Another reason to consider online pharmaceutical shopping is privacy.

Physical pharmacies take precautions to protect your personal and medical information. But it is not guaranteed. During the consultation, you may not feel comfortable discussing your medical conditions in the middle of a crowded store. If you live in a small town, you may know the pharmacist and feel uncomfortable with them knowing what medications you are taking.

Of course, they are bound by confidentiality laws. But, with online prescription shopping, the only people who see your personal information are those filling or shipping the order.

If you are nervous about submitting prescription information online, ask about the company's protection protocols. These entail some type of encryption methods for medical and personal information. Reputable pharmacies will have robust systems to ensure the protection of your information.

8. Secure Delivery

Online pharmacies take special precautions when shipping your medication. They will send it priority mail and generally require a signature upon delivery.

Since this is what they specialize in, online pharmacies hone their delivery systems for security and expediency. Shipping is fast and can even accommodate items that need refrigeration.

The ability to order whenever they like can be a big advantage to people who take medications on an as-needed basis. Maybe you are uncertain how much medication you will need for a particular period.

It can be a hassle to have to return to the pharmacy when you run out sooner than expected. And many physical pharmacies will dispense medications in standard amounts, with no option.

There is no need to worry about this with online ordering. It is easy to select the desired dose and reorder whenever you want.

9. Greater Prescription Adherence

Greater reliability in accessing medication translates to better adherence to treatment regimens. A 2016 study of 100,000 patients showed that mail-order access to medications significantly increased adherence.

Participants who received their medication through the mail were adherent almost 74 percent of the time. This was much higher than the adherence rate (47 percent) for those who picked up their prescriptions at a physical store.

Prescription adherence is very important and can even be life-saving. Having access to the right medications when you need them improves adherence and health outcomes.

Greater precision in getting people the right amount of medication also helps cut down on medical waste. It is a hassle to dispose of unused drugs and can be a waste of money. Getting the right amount of medication at the right intervals limits the potential of overordering.

10. Superior Quality

Canadian pharmacies shipping drugs to the United States must follow all U.S. dispensing rules and regulations. And they are governed by Canada’s National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities.

A good rule of thumb is to look for accredited online pharmaceutical companies. They will have an on-staff pharmacist and require a valid prescription for medications. Feel free to ask questions about a company's supply-chain policies and procedures.

A Question About Insurance

For your health insurance to cover online pharmacies, they would need to be enrolled through the plan’s pharmacy benefits manager. This will most likely not be the case with Canadian online companies.

But it is important to remember that the savings from online pharmacies can outweigh drug costs covered under your insurance. This, of course, depends on the medication and your coverage. The only way to find out is to check.

Advantages of Buying Canadian Drugs Online

Ordering cheap Canadian drugs online can be straightforward and fast. It can offer convenience, costs savings, and even help improve health outcomes.

At PricePro Pharmacy, our main goal is to provide you with the biggest discount medication possible. We serve thousands of people living in the United States. And we dispense all our medications from a licensed pharmacy.

We have state-of-the-art security encryption for online ordering. We provide some of the highest levels of security for protecting your personal and medical information.

Be sure to check out our online reviews to see what people are saying about their experience. Also, take a look at our online medications forum to see if we can help save you money while taking care of your healthcare needs.

Save Money on ED Using an Online Canadian Pharmacy

Author , posted on January 15, 2021

Category: Prescription Related Questions


online canadian pharmacy

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects an estimated 15% of the world's male population. Researchers also project its prevalence to affect 320 million men by 2025. If this forecast comes to pass, it will signify a two-fold growth from the 150 million ED patients back in 1995.

In North America alone, more than one in five men have erectile dysfunction. While it's more widespread among older men, ED symptoms also exhibit in men younger than 40.

If you're one of these folks, an online Canadian pharmacy can be your sexual health's saving grace.

Ready to learn how exactly buying ED meds from a Canadian Pharmacy online benefit you? Let's get right into it then!

Canada's Prescription Drugs Have Always Been Affordable

Especially if you compare their cost with the neighboring United States.

In the US, consumers shell out at least four times more for medications than in other countries. There were even times in which they paid 67 times more for the same drug. For this reason, 79% of Americans find US prescription drugs to be unreasonable.

Previous studies have confirmed that even patented drugs in Canada are at least 40% lower than in the US. However, a reputable online Canadian pharmacy sells both branded and generic drugs. So, you can just imagine how much more you can save if you purchase all your meds online.

Considerable Savings When Buying Viagra and Cialis in Canada

From 2012 to 2017, the cost of Viagra (branded sildenafil) in the US rose by 190%. That's a $243 increase from $127 to $370 per monthly prescription. The cost of Cialis (branded tadalafil), Viagra's rival, also rose by 187% from $127 to $365 during the same period.

Fast forward to 2020, and Viagra's average price per pill still averages about $80 in the US. As for Cialis, it stands at around $70 per 5 mg tablet.

Buy branded Viagra from a trustworthy Canadian Pharmacy online, and you can get four tabs for as low as $60. That places the average cost per tablet at a mere $15. You can save more if you go with a 32-tablet supply, which costs as little as $380, or $11.80 per tablet.

With a reputable Canadian pharmacy, Cialis prices can cost as low as $150 for 28 tablets with a 2.5 mg dose. Most doctors prescribe this as the starting daily dose for patients with ED. However, if your Cialis prescription is 5 mg, you can save even more with 28 tablets costing only $115 in total.

Do note that these rates for Viagra and Cialis in Canada are for the actual branded products. Viagra is from Pfizer, while Cialis is from Eli Lilly.

If you do the math, you can see that Viagra from a Canadian pharmacy can cost up to five times less than in the US. On the other hand, Canada's Cialis online prices can be about 14 times less than the going rate in the US. Those huge savings should be enough reason to buy from a licensed Canadian pharmacy.

Availability of Lower-Cost Generic ED Medications

Generic drugs can cost 80% to 85% less than their branded counterparts. However, they are just as potent as their branded predecessors. They use the same ingredient (or an equivalent) to deliver the same effects.

The main reason generic drugs are cheaper is that they are no longer "new" inventions. Generic drug makers pattern their products from existing branded medications. Therefore, they spend fewer resources on research, marketing, and distribution.

Safety and Efficacy of Generic Drugs in Canada

In Canada, all generic drugs must comply with Health Canada's stringent protocols. Health Canada then tests these medications for safety, efficacy, and quality. Only after these processes can a generic drug receive approval from the department.

As such, generic drugs available from licensed Canadian pharmacies are safe and effective. The same applies to ED medications, such as generic Cialis and generic Viagra.

Do note that generic ED drugs still require prescriptions, much like the branded ones. Although they are far more affordable, Health Canada still heavily regulates them. As such, you'd need to have a valid doctor's prescription to buy generic ED medications online.

Generic Viagra in Canada

Viagra's generic drug counterpart is sildenafil. Aside from erectile dysfunction, it also helps treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Sildenafil works by helping boost circulation to the penile blood vessels. Keep in mind that problems with blood vessels are among the chief causes of ED. After all, the penis can't get erect or maintain an erection if there's too little blood flow.

Sildenafil's effects take about half an hour to one hour to kick in. However, it's safe to consume for up to four hours before having sex. You do need to feel sexually-aroused for the drug to work, though.

If you buy online generic Viagra in Canada, you can get a four-tablet supply for as low as $16, or $4 per tab. That's a staggering $11 price difference per tablet if you compare it with branded Viagra.

Generic Cialis in Canada

Tadalafil is Cialis' generic version, and like sildenafil, it's also a vasodilator. It helps treat and manage the symptoms of ED by boosting blood flow to the penis. Patients also take tadalafil to help ease the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Tadalafil differs from sildenafil in that it has a longer "half-life." This means that it stays in the blood and the system longer. Tadalafil's half-life is 17.5 hours, while sildenafil's is four hours.

For this reason, you don't have to take tadalafil right before sexual intercourse. The longer window gives you more freedom to time when you want to have sex. However, it does need about one to two hours to take effect from the time you take it.

Generic Cialis online can only cost you $20.50 for 30 pieces of 2.5 mg tablets, which is about $0.68 per unit. If your prescription is for 5 mg, the price hikes up a bit to $28 for 30 tablets, which is still only $0.93 per unit. All in all, you can save over a hundred dollars for a month's supply if you switch from Cialis to generic tadalafil.

Lower-Priced Branded ED Medication Alternatives

If, for some reason, you don't want to take generic Viagra or Cialis, you may want to go with a branded substitute. Your alternative to Viagra is Revatio, which uses sildenafil too and is also from Pfizer.

Revatio's 20 mg tablets can go for as low as $6.54 per unit if you buy 90 tablets at a time. That's almost a $10 difference compared to Viagra's typical $16 per 25 mg tablet.

A lower-cost alternative to Eli Lilly's Cialis is the branded Adcirca, also from the same maker. Adcirca has a relatively lower price at $15.86 per unit of 20 mg tablets (if you buy a 56-tablet supply).

Affordable Levitra Straight From the Source

Levitra is another erectile dysfunction treatment that uses vardenafil as its active ingredient. Vardenafil is like sildenafil and tadalafil in that it's also a PDE5 inhibitor. In this way, it also works by boosting blood flow to the penile blood vessels.

Branded Levitra is from Bayer. In the US, one 20 mg tablet of the branded drug costs about $75 on average. From a reputable Canadian pharmacy, four tablets of the same Levitra can cost as low as $58, or $14.50 per unit.

In studies that compared vardenafil with sildenafil, the former showed a greater potency. It also didn't affect color perception, which is a rare side effect of sildenafil. However, researchers noted that the two drugs have the same efficacy in treating ED.

Generic Vardenafil for More Substantial Savings

If your doctor permits, you can switch from Levitra to generic vardenafil. As with all generic drugs, vardenafil from a licensed Canadian pharmacy is also a lot cheaper.

For example, a supply of 10 tablets of generic vardenafil 20 mg can only cost you $25 in total. Broken down, that's only $2.50 a piece, compared to the branded version's per-unit price of $14.50.

Buying in Bulk Can Save You Hundreds More

A 90-day supply of medications for personal use is the maximum allowed by law in most countries. This means you can buy up to three months' worth of ED prescriptions. So long as your prescription is valid, you can take advantage of this for bigger savings.

For starters, most medications cost less when bought in bulk. This also applies to erectile dysfunction medications.

Suppose you buy a 4-tablet supply of Viagra from a Canadian pharmacy, which can cost $64 or $16 apiece. If you purchase 88 tablets in one go, you would only pay $12.50 per piece, for a total of $1,100.

So, over the course of three months, you could save $298. That's a staggering savings of $1,192 for an entire year.

With Cialis, the savings are a bit smaller, as this brand is already cheaper than Viagra. However, opting for an 84-tablet supply can still save you $60 over the course of three months. That adds up to a savings of more than $240 for an entire year.

More Savings With Online Canadian Pharmacy Coupons

If this is your first time ordering from an online Canadian pharmacy, be sure to check for coupons. You may be eligible for discounts ranging from $10 to $20 on your first purchase. Reputable e-pharmacies also offer drug-specific discounts, such as on Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra.

If you take other prescription meds, make sure you scout for these discounts, too. Every dollar makes a difference, and most coupons are worth $10 at least. All those discounts can add up to hundreds of savings per year.

Lower Cost Medications Means Better Prescription Adherence

According to the CDC, almost one in four people in the US are on at least three prescription drugs. More than 12% of the nation's population even have to take five or more of these medications!

If you're one of these patients, you may be having a hard time adhering to your prescriptions. You may be skipping some of them due to their high costs. Not only is this unhelpful to your health, but it can also be unsafe if you suddenly stop taking them.

A licensed online Canadian pharmacy can help by ensuring your prescriptions stay filled. Again, that's because their high-quality products cost far less, so your money goes a long way. Remember: A one-month supply of ED drugs in the US can be enough for a 12-month supply with Canada's low prices.

With that said, consider shopping online if you need to take other meds aside from your ED ones. The savings you can get with your ED medication refills may even be enough to offset your other meds' costs. 

Fixed Shipping Rates

You can expect a flat shipping rate whenever you buy your ED meds from a reputable Canadian pharmacy. You'd pay less than $10, but you can order up to 3-months supply of each prescription. The number of items per order won't affect your shipping costs.

Suppose you need to order ED medications plus a few other prescriptions. You wish to have each of your prescription drugs filled for three months. So long as you place a single order for all of them, you will only pay one fixed shipping rate.

So, over the course of a year, your total shipping costs would only be about $40 ($10 for each quarter). If you order once a month, your shipping costs will tally to $120. Buying in bulk, therefore, nets you an extra $80 savings.

Live Your Life to the Fullest With High-Quality, Low-Cost ED Meds

As you can see, there are plenty of ways that a reputable online Canadian pharmacy can help you with your ED. You can save so much money with lower-cost ED medications. These massive savings, in turn, can help you adhere to your other prescriptions.

Here at PricePro Pharmacy, you can expect only high-quality prescription drugs. If you would like to know more about our ED medications, one of our resident pharmacists will be happy to help. Get in touch with us now so you can start taking back control of your sexual health!