How To Save More on Blood Pressure Medicines?

Introduction

High blood pressure or hypertension has been on the rise in India! If not managed well, it can increase the risk of strokes, heart attacks and other heart conditions. In 2015-16, 19% of men and 17% of women had hypertension, but in 2019-2020, this number has gone up to 24% and 21%, respectively. Hypertension is the most important risk factor that causes death and disability in the country. 

In addition to medicines for hypertension, its effective management requires healthy lifestyle changes, exercising regularly, not smoking and managing stress. Blood pressure medicines have to be taken long-term, and this can cause a financial strain. One of the common questions asked is how to save on treatment for high blood pressure. 

We will explore the solutions to this problem. 

How to Effectively Manage High Blood Pressure

Irrespective of age, there are certain measures that can be taken to keep blood pressure levels within a healthy range. It is important to regularly measure blood pressure levels as high levels often do not show symptoms. If blood pressure is managed well, it can reduce the chances of developing strokes and cardiovascular diseases. However, if hypertension is not managed effectively, it can cause severe complications like aneurysms, kidney problems, eye problems, heart failure and dementia. 

The basics of any hypertension management plan include these steps:

• Measuring blood pressure regularly 
• Monitoring and managing blood sugar levels and lipid profile
• Taking the prescribed medicines regularly 
• Regular physical activity as per one’s age and health- brisk walking, swimming, yoga, outdoor sports, Zumba etc. 
• Following a healthy diet plan to fulfil all nutrition needs while cutting down on added sugars, salt and fat intake. The DASH diet is especially recommended for people with high blood pressure. 
• Frequently following up with the doctor and getting routine health checkups as advised. 

Common Mistakes People Make while Managing High Blood Pressure

While managing hypertension, people tend to make some common mistakes which can lead to uncontrolled high blood pressure. This can further increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, damage to eyes and kidneys and increase the cost of treatment. It is best to avoid these by managing high blood pressure sincerely:

• People can monitor their blood pressure at home, but it is important that the readings are accurate. Avoid smoking, drinking caffeinated beverages or exercising 30 minutes before measuring your blood pressure. You should ideally sit quietly for 10 minutes before the test and have an empty bladder to get the most accurate results. 
• Do not forget to take your medicines. You can use a pill organiser or an alarm to remind you. 
• Medication is not enough, and you will also need to make lifestyle changes cut down on salt intake to manage hypertension. 
• Home remedies are not an alternative to prescription medication. Do not stop these medicines in favour of home remedies. 

If the above points are not adhered to, it could cause hypertension to worsen, increasing the cost of the treatment in the future. 

The Issue: Managing High Blood Pressure Can Be Financially Draining

Some studies show that people with hypertension spend twice as much each month compared to those with normal blood pressure. This makes us wonder why these medicines are so costly.

 “Are medicines to treat hypertension always this expensive?” 

There are different types of medicines for hypertension, and their prices vary depending on whether the medicine is branded or generic. There are various kinds of medicines to treat hypertension that are available for sale, and the medicines are priced differently. The price usually depends on the kind of medicine – if it is branded or generic.

The Solution: You Can Save Money with Generic Alternates

By choosing generic alternatives instead of branded ones, you can spend less on hypertension medicines. This change can help you cut down on the costs of managing high blood pressure to a great extent.

What Are Generic Alternates?

Generic alternates have the same active ingredients as branded medicines. They may look different in appearance and packaging, but they work in the same way. Generic alternates for high blood pressure are usually cheaper than branded medicines. 

Generic alternates may be different from the branded version in these ways:

• They have the exact same composition.
• They have the same medicinal outcome.
• They share similarities with respect to administration, dose, strength and intended use.

Are Generic Alternates Safe?

Generic medicines have the same active ingredient as branded medicine, and they work in the same way. Generic medicines can only be sold if they adhere to the same strict standards of quality, effectiveness, and safety as the branded medicine. 

Are Generic Alternates Cheaper?

Generic medicines are usually cheaper in comparison to branded medicines because there is no need to conduct studies to prove the effectiveness and safety of the medicine. When a new medicine is introduced, patents are made to protect the manufacturing process and the ingredient list. Once the patent expires, other companies are free to sell generic medicines using the same formula. 

How to Save Money on Hypertension Medicines

• You can save money on medicines to treat hypertension by opting for generic medicines. These medicines are available on the PharmEasy website or mobile app and have the same quality and effectiveness as the branded medicines. 
• You can ask the doctor to prescribe generic medicines to save on your high blood pressure medicine bills.
• There are discounts available on the medicines, and you can compare the prices of the generic and the branded medicines before purchasing. 

How to Save Money on Hypertension Supplies

• While purchasing your heart-care supplies, such as blood pressure monitors, oximeters, etc, remember to compare the prices and discounts being offered.

Conclusion

Hypertension can be a difficult health condition to manage as it can cause several health issues. Keeping high blood pressure levels in check is essential with medication and lifestyle changes. The financial burden of the medicines can cause stress and worry, but with an effective treatment plan, people with hypertension can live long and healthy lives. 

One practical way to reduce the costs associated with hypertension management is to switch to generic medicines. These medicines are just as safe and effective as their branded alternatives but do not cost as much. This will help to lower the expenditure on hypertension management. Speak to the doctor about the same. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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