Over time, it's easy to end up on several prescriptions from different doctors. A periodic review of everything you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, can uncover duplicates, medications you may no longer need or lower-cost alternatives that could work just as well.

Bring all your medications to your next appointment, or a complete list with doses, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to look them over. Say plainly that cost is a concern. Doctors don't always know what a drug costs you at the pharmacy, and many are glad to consider less expensive options when they're medically appropriate.

Never stop or change a medication on your own to save money, even if you think you no longer need it, since some drugs must be tapered or replaced carefully. The same goes for splitting pills. Some tablets can be safely split and others can't, so always ask your pharmacist or doctor first.