RX DRUG SMARTS

using meds wisely

Tools

Compare Drug Effectiveness and Costs

This guide describes medication alternatives for common conditions. You'll also find information about generic medications and other money-saving tips.

Drug Encyclopedia

Look up your meds with this drug-search tool.

Interaction Checker

Check for food and drug interactions among your drugs with this tool.

AARP Programs

Rx Watchdog Reports

AARP Watchdog reports on the pricing, legislative and public policies of the world's pharmaceutical manufacturers.

 

Create the Good: Health Opportunities

Help others get fit, start personal medication records, and more, through Create the Good.

Divided We Fail

The Divided We Fail effort advances the idea that partisan gridlock should not stand in the way of affordable health care and long-term financial security for all Americans.
 

Voices

Elinor Ginzler

Help Loved Ones With Meds

By Elinor Ginzler

Elinor Ginzler gives advice on how to protect loved ones from prescription-drug mishaps.

AARP Books

Book: the aarp guide to pills

The AARP Guide to Pills

Information on more than 1,200 prescription and nonprescription medications, including generics, side effects, and drug interactions.

From My Generation

computer mouse surrounded by medication

Electronic prescriptions can help cut down on potentially harmful medication mistakes and save you money. Find out how.

juicer surrounded by fruit

Meds Not Working? It Could Be Your Juice

By Katharine Greider

Grapefruit isn't the only fruit juice that could mess up your meds. Two other top juices also pose problems, research indicates.

medication with coffee

Toss Your Meds
the Right Way

From Prime Time Focus

Ready to get rid of old pills? Use this easy method to trash them safely. Heads up! It involves a sandwich bag and coffee or kitty litter.

Online Community

Group: Medication Issues

Group: Medicare Part D

Join the the conversation about drug costs. What's your take on generics? 
Join Group

Journal: Cherry

Journal: Meds
User Cherry wants to save money on meds. Should she try Canada?
Read Journal

Free Antibiotics …
at the Supermarket

By Sid Kirchheimer

Some supermarkets are offering a free two-week course of antibiotics through March 21. Find out which ones.

Avoid These Risky Drug Combos

By Lindsey Tanner

At least two million older Americans are taking a potentially harmful combination of drugs, a new study warns. Here's what to watch for.

Drug Offers a Ray of Hope
for Alzheimer's Patients

By Barbara Basler

A new drug appears to help people with Alzheimer's get better, at least at first. Researchers are investigating how long the effect is sustained. 

Are Million-Dollar Meds
Busting Your Budget?

By Barbara Basler

New "specialty" drugs command prices 10 to 100 times higher than other prescription drugs because patients have few alternatives.

FROM THE HEALTH ENCYCLOPEDIA


AARP Health Benefits

AARP Health Insurance Benefit

Affordable Healthcare? Consider it Done

Insurance & Plans: From Major Medical to Medicare Supplement, find the right health insurance plan for you.

Discounts & Savings: Pharmacy, Vision & and even Fitness discounts provide everyday savings for you.

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senior woman playing video game

Video Games for Grownups 
Read our latest reviews—with adult players like you in mind—of video games across multiple platforms.

 

Travel Expert Peter Greenberg 
Are airlines giving you worry lines? Need the latest news on the best cruise? AARP.org travel columnist Peter Greenberg can help.

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