Keeping drug costs down in retirement

If you're fortunate enough to have a job with good health benefits, you may not think much of the cost of prescription medications you take. You may only have to make a co-payment that covers a fraction of the total cost. When you are retired and on Medicare, you'll still have to pay a share of health-care expenses out of pocket — and those expenses will likely consume much of your Social Security benefits and retirement savings. Of the few suggested ways to keep those costs down, some tips include:

• Buy generic drugs. Learn the generic name of the drug  you take. Generic drugs are generally cheaper than brand names. More important: Since all medicines have one generic name, knowing that name can help you avoid mistakes and possible overdoses if you're taking the same medicine under different brand names.
• Shop online. Check the internet for online pharmacies that may offer you a better deal. Make sure the pharmacy is accredited by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy as a Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site and displays the VIPPS seal.

Also, NABP says if a website has ".pharmacy" at the end of its web address, you can rest assured that the online pharmacy is operating legally. Find safe and legal online pharmacies at www.safe.pharmacy.