What should I do if I can't afford my cancer medicine?

If you cannot afford your cancer medicine, the most important step is to ask for help rather than skipping doses. The National Cancer Institute advises against skipping or stretching doses, because it can interfere with pain control and harm your health.

Start by telling your doctor that cost is a problem. They may be able to choose a medicine that works for your budget, such as a generic version, which usually costs less. You can also ask whether the form of the medicine matters, since pills may cost less than other forms.

Beyond your doctor, your nurse or a hospital social worker can point you to discount drug programs and patient assistance programs that help pay for prescriptions or find them at a lower cost. Asking early, before you run out, gives you the most options. This is general information, not medical advice, so your own care team is the best guide for your medicines.