TrumpRx Promised To Smash Drug Prices, But All We Got Was A Confusing Discount Coupon: Brief Thoughts On How to Save Where You Can

For Americans flustered with inflation and the cost of living, reducing drug prices would be a slam-dunk policy — if only it were that easy. Democrats moved to rein in prescription prices by negotiating with pharma companies, Republicans have drummed up anticipation around TrumpRx, promising to smash sky-high prices. We have some thoughts about its underwhelming launch:

• Just use GoodRx instead: The company that was an “integration partner” on TrumpRx offers more features that allow you to access deals on branded meds, show you where to fill them or pick them up, and let you know if generic alternatives exist.
• See if your drugs are generic: Many commonly-prescribed drugs are available as generics through online pharmacies like CostPlus Drug Company, where the out-of-pocket price of some meds might be cheaper than if you paid with insurance.

But what about branded meds? We’re still waiting for the slam-dunk (probably not the answer you were hoping for). There were a lot of upset people hoping for a breakthrough on weight loss drugs in particular, with TrumpRx only offering ‘teaser deals’ on key drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound (which could be found on services like GoodRx, too). To that end, your insurance may be your best bet — call the number on your insurance card to find out how to get it covered and the costs, especially given how the FDA is cracking down on compounded meds.