What’s the Difference Between Brand Name and Generic Drugs?
You probably know that generic drugs are a lot cheaper than brand name drugs, but you may wonder why. Are they lower quality? Less effective? The FDA requires that a generic drug have the same active ingredient, quality and strength as the brand-name equivalent. The cost difference between brands and generics comes from the cost […]
What’s the Difference Between Prescription Discount Plans and Prescription Drug Insurance?
There are two basic and very different types of drug plans: prescription discount plans and prescription drug insurance. In a discount plan, you typically pay a monthly or annual fee and get a card. You present your card when you fill a prescription, and the pharmacy gives you a certain percentage off the cost of […]
What is a Specialty Drug?
Specialty drugs are high-cost prescription medications used to treat complex, chronic conditions like cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Specialty drugs often require special handling (like refrigeration during shipping) and administration (such as injection or infusion). Patients using a specialty drug often must be monitored closely to determine if the therapy is working and to […]