Understand your prescriptions

Last updated on October 2, 2024

Prescription details

It’s important to understand your prescription medication. Get to know more about what your provider has prescribed by reviewing your medication on your Prescription details page.

Brand-name vs. generic medication

Researchers spend significant time and money trying to find new treatments for a wide range of illnesses. When a company discovers, develops and patents a new prescription drug, they have exclusive rights to sell it for a set amount of time. When their patent expires, other companies can make and sell a generic version of the medication.

Generic medication must contain the same active ingredients as the brand-name version. Their formulas can include different inactive ingredients, like flavoring or preservatives. According to The Food and Drug Administration, generics are just as safe and effective.

Alternative medication

Your provider can choose an alternative medication if you experience side effects or have drug interactions with a prescription. Alternative medications can be just as effective for treating your health condition as your current medication.

Dispose of your medications properly

If you have leftover or expired medication, it is important that you safely dispose of them.

State laws and regulations

Medication disposal laws vary from state to state. You can find information about local laws and regulations on your state’s health department website. Waste disposal companies can help you dispose of unwanted medication.

United States federal guidelines

Visit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or White House Drug Policy websites to learn about federal guidelines.

Controlled substances policy

As of Jan. 1, 2020, your provider must send prescriptions for all controlled substances through the certified electronic system. Talk with your prescriber about using a safe and secure system. This policy change does not affect members residing in nursing homes or in hospice care, nor members in Alaska, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

How do I know if my prescription is a controlled substance?

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) regulates certain medication for safety and potential for abuse. Check with your prescriber or pharmacist to see if your medication is a controlled substance. Or visit the DEA’s website to view a list of these medications.