Compare Prescription Drug Prices on the NJ Registry

The State Division of Consumer Affairs reminds consumers of an important online resource, the prescription drug price registry.

According to state officials, prescription drug prices can vary as much as $60 per unit from one New Jersey pharmacy to the next, depending on the specific drug and other factors.

The registry is maintained by the Division of Consumer Affairs. It lets consumers compare the prices offered at different pharmacies for the 150 most frequently prescribed drugs. The website allows consumers to input the prescribed medication and dosage type, and their town name or ZIP code, for a list of the prices offered by specific pharmacies in their area.

“New Jersey’s Prescription Drug Price Registry is an easy-to-use resource in English and Spanish, that can put hundreds of dollars back into consumers’ pockets," Thomas R. Calcagni, Acting Director of the State Division of Consumer Affairs. "Medication is expensive, but the Division of Consumer Affairs is doing what it can to help consumers take care of their health and their bank accounts."

Consumers buying prescription medications – especially if they are buying from more than one pharmacy – should always communicate with the pharmacist about their medical condition and the full list of drugs they are taking. Failure to communicate with the pharmacist may result in purchasing drugs that are not compatible with each other or with the patient’s health.

The Division of Consumer Affairs updates the Prescription Drug Price Registry each week, from claims that licensed New Jersey pharmacies submit to the State Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services regarding their “usual and customary” prices.

Actual prices charged may vary from those listed on the registry website. While using the registry to make informed shopping decisions, consumers should call or visit their pharmacy to learn the current price before buying.