Why the Pharmacy Quote Changed: Strength, Quantity, and Store
· 2 min read
A pharmacy quote is a price for one exact fill. Here is why the number can change and how to compare two quotes fairly.
Short answer: A pharmacy quote is the price for one exact fill: a specific drug, strength, form, quantity, pharmacy, and way of paying. Change any of those and the number can change, even when it feels like "the same medicine." To compare fairly, compare the same fill each time. Never change a prescription to chase a price without talking to your prescriber or pharmacist.
A quote is a price for one exact fill
Think of a quote as a label with six parts. If any part changes, you are looking at a different quote.
1. The strength changed
Different strengths of the same medicine can be priced differently.
2. The quantity or days' supply changed
A 30-day fill and a 90-day fill are different fills. Compare the price per day, not just the total. See asking about a 90-day supply.
3. The form changed
Tablets, capsules, liquids, and extended-release versions can each have their own price.
4. Brand or generic
A brand-name medicine and its generic usually have different prices. Whether a generic is right for you is a question for your prescriber or pharmacist.
5. The pharmacy changed
Different pharmacies can quote different prices for the same fill.
6. The way of paying changed
A quote might assume a prescription plan, a cash price, or a membership. Ask which one.
Where The Drug Club fits
With The Drug Club, eligible medications are $0 with membership. Eligibility depends on the exact medication, strength, form, and quantity, so check yours on the Medications page.
How to compare two quotes fairly
- Match the drug, strength, form, and quantity.
- Note the pharmacy for each quote.
- Note the way of paying each quote assumes.
- For a membership, include the monthly fee in your monthly total.
Quote-check checklist
- Same drug, strength, form, quantity
- Same or noted pharmacy
- Way of paying noted
- Monthly fee included where it applies
FAQ
Why is my refill a different price than last month?
Something about the fill may have changed: the quantity, the strength, the pharmacy, or the way it was paid. Ask the pharmacy which one.
Is a 90-day supply always cheaper?
Not always. Compare the price per day, and remember only your prescriber can change the quantity.
Can I ask the pharmacy for a cheaper strength?
Do not change your strength yourself. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether any change is right for you.
Next step
Check your medications on Medications and try The Drug Club risk-free for 30 days.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your own medications and health. The Drug Club is a prescription membership. It is not insurance and not a discount card. Questions? Email support@thedrugclub.com or call (424) 375-7114.