The average American spends about $1,300 each year on prescription drugs. Prescription drug prices in the United States rank among the highest globally. It’s no surprise that drug prices vary, so it can pay to shop around. Cutting costs on prescription drugs is easier than you may think. Consider the following strategies to help lower your bills for pills:

• Go generic. If a generic drug isn’t available, ask your doctor or pharmacist if there’s a similar drug with a generic version.
• Compare prices. Instead of running a prescription through insurance, use an app to compare and find the least expensive option.
• Order a 90-day supply. Once you know a prescription works well for you, ask if there’s a way to get a 90-day supply instead of a 30-day supply.
• Sign up for a rewards program. Major drugstores will offer rewards programs that let you accumulate points when you fill prescriptions or use other pharmacy services, eventually resulting in coupons or other discounts.
• Use a preferred pharmacy.  Find a pharmacy in your network so you can secure a lower copayment and save on costs.
• Call your insurance company. Every drug plan has a formulary, which refers to a list of covered drugs. If your prescribed drugs are not covered, ask if there’s an alternative available.
• Check for rebates. Browse manufacturer websites for coupons and rebates.
• Shop around. Small and independent pharmacies tend to be less expensive than large chain alternatives.
• Pay with cash. Pharmacists can tell you if you’ll save money by not using your insurance and paying with cash instead.
• Split pills. Tablet-splitting isn’t safe for all medications, so ask your doctor if your prescription is available in a higher dose that’s OK to split.

If you have prescription drug questions, talk to your pharmacist. Before paying, ask whether there’s a better price available. They may know of some additional cost-cutting tips and can provide guidance.

10 Ways to Reduce Your Prescription Drug Costs