There are many types of discount cards offered by governmental agencies, major pharmaceutical companies, private companies and other organizations. Some local pharmacies offer their own discount programs for senior citizens. Most cards have income limitations, some require proof of financial hardship, and there are terms and conditions associated with most of the discount cards. Cards issued by the pharmaceutical companies cover only selected medications they manufacture and distribute.

Savings range from10% to 90% depending on the card, the pharmacy and the medication. You may have only one Medicare sponsored discount card, which will be valid only through 2005. Depending on your medications, better savings might be available with other discount cards. Thoroughly evaluate your medications and explore all options before making a decision. The Medicare card isn't for everyone.

Here is a small list of some of the most popular prescription discount cards.

GENERIC AND OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICINES

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if generic medications are available instead of the prescribed brand names. Generic medicines are 15-90% cheaper than brand names.

What's the same: strength, purity, ingredients, and effect.

What's different: size, color, shape, and price.

Many former prescription medications are now available over-the-counter, located in the aisle section of your pharmacy or grocery store. Over 700 former prescription medications have been given OTC status since the 1970s. These are the same medicines you formerly had filled as prescriptions, but are now available as OTC for much less. The OTC products may be less potent than your requirement, which means you may have to increase the amount you take to equal the correct dose.

Either way, Generic or OTC, explore all possibilities as ways to save lots of money over regular prescribed medications.