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How to Buy and Use Medicine

Get answers to common questions about buying and using medications, such as ways to get help with prescription drug costs and the steps to file complaints about medicine and medical products.

Help with Prescription Drug Costs

Find government programs that can help you pay for prescription drugs.

What help is available to pay for prescription drugs?

Am I eligible for help with my prescription drug costs?

The requirements for each program vary by state. Your state human services agency or your local health center will determine your eligibility.

How do I apply for prescription drug assistance?

Your state human services agency or local health center will be able to help you with the application process. Applications and requirements vary in states and cities.

Where do I call for extra help with prescription drug costs?

If you need additional help finding the right program for you, or you want to make a complaint about a program, contact RXAssist.

Is there anything else I need to know about prescription drug costs?

  • Contact the pharmaceutical companies that make your prescription drugs or devices, and ask for any low-cost options, samples, or discounts,

  • Learn more about finding generic drugs to lower your costs.

Complaints about Medicine and Medical Products

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) manages consumer complaints about medicines, dietary supplements, and medical devices.

If you or someone in your family had an adverse reaction to a medical product:

Pet Medication Problems

Some dogs or cats may have adverse reaction to medication or problems with a medical device. You have several options:

File a Complaint About an Online Pharmacy

If you suspect an online pharmacy is fake, report it to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Tracking Potentially Dangerous Medication

The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database tracks information from reports about problems associated with medical products. The FDA releases quarterly reports based on information from FAERS to help medical professionals and the public learn about potential safety issues with specific medical products.

Dietary Supplements

The FDA regulates dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbs as food products.

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Last Updated: March 22, 2019

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