Over the Counter Drugs

Physicians are not in the habit of prescribing OTC medications for their patients, because employer health plans, like Costco's, traditionally have not offered coverage for them. Consequently, the more expensive prescription brand is prescribed, since it costs the patient less money than if they had to pay full price for an OTC drug.

Which over-the-counter drugs will be covered?
Coverage will be available for certain allergy and heartburn/reflux (acid blockers) medications.
Click here to view the covered drugs.

What is the copay for the OTC medication?
A one-month supply of the OTC products listed in bold print in the chart will cost you $0; the others will cost you only $2. You will save as much as $25 per prescription by switching your current prescription brand to one of these. Not only will you save money, but the Costco Wholesale benefit plan will save since OTC medications are less expensive then the prescription brand alternative.

How to switch?
We encourage you to share this information and discuss these prescription options with your physician and see whether one of these OTC medications is right for you or your family member. If so, ask him or her to write you a new prescription for the OTC drug and then have it filled at a Costco pharmacy. The OTC benefit is only available at Costco location pharmacies.

Where can I get more information?

·  Consumer Reports articles:

• Drugs to Treat Heartburn & Ulcers: The Proton Pump Inhibitors
• Treating Allergies, Hay Fever and Hives: The Antihistamines

·  Please see the March issue of the Costco Today employee magazine - "New Over-the-Counter Benefit Can Ease Drug Costs for Costco Employees."

·  If you have questions about your prescription drug benefits, you can contact
    Aetna Member Services.