Prescription medications are becoming widely common in America. According to The Mayo Clinic, there are 70% of Americans that are taking at least one prescription drug. A study was done in 2015 that tracked the sales at the pharmacy level for drug companies and there was $374 billion spent on drugs in America in total for 2013. The amount of prescription drugs that are being created and sold is only increasing. Which drugs are the most commonly used in America? An IMS report was done to determine the most common in the year 2014.

Most Common Prescription Drugs

The top five prescription drugs are as following

• Levothyroxine
• Hydrocodone/acetaminophen
• Lisinopril
• Metoprolol
• Atorvastatin

Levothyroxine, which sold 120 million in, is used to treat hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine can also be used to treat thyroid cancer and shrink enlarged thyroid gland.

Hydrocodone, in 2013, was sold 119 million times. Hydrocodone, also known as acetaminophen is the most popular painkiller. It relieves pain through the central nervous system and is a narcotic analgesic. The more it is used; the high chances using it can develop a habit.

Metoprolol, 85 million, treats high blood pressure. It also can treat heart failure, heart pain, and reduce heart attack.

Atorvastatin, 81 million, is the generic of Lipitor. This drug treats high cholesterol and is recommended for diet changes. This drug can also help prevent stroke, heart attacks and more.

Paying For Prescription Drugs

Paying for prescription drugs can become expensive, even with insurance. The name brand will always be or expensive than the generic. The determination of the price depends on the dosage, ingredients, and where the prescription drugs are filled. If you or a loved one need help paying for your prescription drugs, Advocate My Meds can help those without insurance. Visit our site or call for more details.