How Much Can You Actually Save Using Cost Plus Drugs?

Medically reviewed by Sarah Wilczek, PharmD., pharmacist at Network Health
2/3/2026

Many people assume all prescription discount services work the same way, but that’s not the case. GoodRx and Cost Plus Drugs are two popular options, and while both can help lower your medication costs, they work very differently. Because of this, it is possible to miss out on savings simply by choosing the wrong option for your situation.

This guide breaks down how each service works, how they compare and when you might consider using one over the other. Let’s start by explaining what each service is, and then we’ll focus on the differences.

What Is GoodRx?

GoodRx is a prescription discount card that offers reduced prices on many medications. It works by negotiating discounts with pharmacies and drug manufacturers, and those savings are passed on to you.

Here’s what you need to know.

• You can use GoodRx at many large retail pharmacies, including Walgreens, Pick ’n Save, Walmart and Meijer.
• Prices are listed on the GoodRx website and can change from day to day and from pharmacy to pharmacy.
• GoodRx is not insurance, and it cannot be used together with your insurance.
• When you use GoodRx, the amount you pay does not count toward your insurance deductible or out-of-pocket maximums.

What Is Cost Plus Drugs?

Cost Plus Drugs is an online, direct-to-consumer pharmacy that focuses on transparent pricing. Their model is simple: you pay the actual cost of the medication plus a 15 percent markup, along with a small pharmacy fee.

Here’s what you need to know.

• Medications are ordered online and delivered through the mail.
• If you’re not using insurance, you pay the listed price plus shipping.
• Network Health Medicare Advantage members can enter their insurance information and use their benefits just like any other mail-order pharmacy — and shipping is not charged when using insurance.
• Tier 1 medications are always $0.
• After the deductible is met, Tier 2 medications are $0 for a 90-day supply, and other medications follow your plan’s cost-share rules.
• Cost Plus Drugs does not carry every medication, and insurance can only be used for generic medications.

GoodRx vs. Cost Plus Drugs: Key Differences

When to Consider Each Option?

So, which one should you use? Both can be useful options. GoodRx may be helpful when you need a medication not covered by your insurance, including drugs excluded by Medicare rules. Examples include certain cough and cold medications, folic acid 1 mg and erectile dysfunction medications.

On the other hand, Cost Plus Drugs is often a strong option for expensive generic medications that are covered by your insurance, especially when you want transparent pricing or prefer mail-order delivery.

Important Considerations for Network Health Members

Now, if you’re a Network Health member with us, there is even more to consider. Specifically, Network Health Medicare Advantage members can use their insurance for generic medications. Remember that payments through GoodRx do not count toward insurance deductibles or out-of-pocket maximums. For those on a Network Health Medicare Advantage plan, payments using Cost Plus Drugs do.

In that way, Cost Plus Drugs work like any other mail order pharmacy, while also helping you get affordable pricing on generic medications. GoodRx, on the other hand, is more of a discount service.

GoodRx and Cost Plus Drugs can both help you save money, but they serve different purposes. GoodRx is useful for medications not covered by insurance, while Cost Plus Drugs can be a smart choice for expensive generics, especially when you can use your Network Health Medicare Advantage benefits. Before filling your next prescription, take a moment to compare your options.

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