If you have health insurance, your plan likely has a formulary, which is a list of covered drugs grouped into tiers. Drugs on lower tiers usually come with lower copays, while those on higher tiers, or not on the list at all, can cost far more out of pocket.

You can usually find the drug list on your insurer's website or by calling the number on your card. Bring it to your next appointment, or look up a new prescription before you leave the doctor's office. If your medication sits on a high tier, there may be a similar drug on a lower tier that would work just as well.

Some drugs also require prior authorization or step therapy, meaning the plan wants your doctor to justify the choice or wants you to try another option first. Ask your doctor's office to handle the paperwork before you head to the pharmacy, so you're not surprised at the counter. Drug lists can change, so check again whenever your plan renews.