When it comes to paying for your medications, every bit of savings helps. Here are some creative ways to save a bit more on your meds.

• Buy the generic brand of the brand-name drug your doctor prescribes for you. Not all drugs have a generic equivalent, but if they do it will definitely save you some cash. 

• Ask your doctor for a few free samples when she prescribes a new drug for you. This way you won't throw away any of your money on a drug that ends up being a dud. It may also prove your claim to an insurance company or assistance program if you need to show that a certain drug has been more effective than another.

• Ask your doctor if your meds are available in double dose pills that are safe to split. If so, buy the higher dose and ask your pharmacist (don't try to split them yourself) to cut the pill into the size for your appropriate dose. Some medications are cheaper if purchased in a double dose and split. 

• Contact a financial planner or nonprofit credit counseling group like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) at 800/388-2227 or www.debtadvice.org to get help budgeting under extreme circumstances.
  

—Angie Cato