Advice on how you can stay healthy and spend less

Whether you need a prescription filled, or just an over-the-counter preparation, there are drug savings to be had. Here's some tips for spending less on your health needs.

• Prescription medicines tend to be more expensive than over-the-counter medications, so consult a pharmacist first if it's not a serious matter.
• The information on many medicines are readily displayed but they can be confusing. To make sure you buy the products you want, you may need to ask for help and check the labelling.

• When your doctor prescribes a drug, make sure you let her know if you have a health plan. Generic drugs are cheaper than name brands, and pharmacists can substitute the cheaper generic drug unless "no substitutions" is marked on the doctor's prescription.
• After the patent on certain drugs expire, other companies can make it, often for cheaper. These generic versions are usually named after the active ingredient.
• Generic drugs can bring big savings for the canny consumer and are usually just as effective as their branded equivalent.

• The fees charged by independent drug stores and chains can be as high as $12 per prescription. Check discount stores with pharmacy departments, where dispensing fees can be much lower.
• Buy three months' worth of medication at a time and save on the cost of dispensing fees.
• The price of prescription drugs doesn't vary much from store to store, but you may be able to save by calling around.

• Familiarize yourself with the names of generic equivalents to common branded medicines.
• Check that the name and amount of the active ingredients are the same in both the generic and the branded packet.
• Ignore the packaging. Don't let cheap designs or packaging of generic drugs put you off. This doesn't affect the effectiveness of the drug.
• All drugs are tested by Health Canada and have a Drug Identification Number (DIN) on the package.

• When you're suffering from a cold or flu, avoid overspending on medication in an effort to get well. Simple acetaminophen will relieve fever and pain and costs far less than flavoured packets marketed specifically for treating colds and flu.
• To avoid an overdose, never combine cold remedies.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, and get some rest.
• Use steam inhalation with menthol or eucalyptus added to clear the nose.

Our health is absolutely paramount, but that doesn't mean savings aren't to be had. To save a little on your pharmaceutical needs, check the ingredients, talk to your pharmacist and chop around for dispensing fees.