How to spend less on your medicine without skipping your treatment

Medicine is the heaviest part of taking care of your health. In Mexico, out of every 100 pesos a family pays from its own pocket for health, 38 go to medicine. In the lowest-income homes it is 50 out of every 100.

The good news: there are ways to make it cost less, without stopping it.

Five steps to watch your spending

1. Make your list. Write down each medicine you take, what it costs and how often you buy it. Then you know what you spend each month.

2. Ask your doctor about options. If there is a generic or a presentation that lasts longer, your doctor will tell you. Never switch a medicine on your own.

3. Use your plan's discounts. With SaludCompartida you get discounts at network pharmacies. The discount depends on the pharmacy and the product. Always ask before you pay.

4. If you are 60 or older, use your INAPAM card. It gives discounts at some pharmacies and stores. For example, in September 2026 discounts were announced at the Bodega Aurrera pharmacy and at Walmart.

5. Buy at the same place when you can. A pharmacy that knows you will tell you when something changes.

Most important

Saving should never mean taking less medicine than you were told. If one month it isn't enough, tell your doctor: together you can look for an option.