Consumers in search of saving money should reconsider prescription drug choices

Americans are increasingly scrutinizing their drug choices to find ones that work but don't break the bank. The Associated Press reports: "Last year pharmaceutical companies spent more than $4 billion urging patients like you to 'ask your doctor' about their drugs. But if you want a prescription that won't empty your wallet, while still keeping you well, you might start asking your doctor about drugs you don't see on TV.

As unemployment continues to rise, experts estimate that 50 million Americans are without health care coverage, forcing many to bear the full cost of their prescriptions. Compounding the problem are steadily rising drug costs. The senior advocacy group AARP reports that prices for the most popular drugs rose 8.7 percent on average last year, more than twice the rate of inflation. Fortunately there are cheaper alternatives to many of these pills." The AP also includes several important points to consider when choosing drugs (Perrone, 11/4).