Your partner in navigating the ins and outs of prescriptions — at no extra cost.

Alto Pharmacy Technician

Alto Pharmacist

It’s official: Alto Pharmacy is a great place to work! We’re honored to join the community ofGreat Place to Work-Certified™ companies based on team member feedback and a rigorous assessment of our company’s culture and benefits.

Join us in delivering our industry-leading pharmacy care to millions of people across the country. As a member of the team, you’ll play an integral role in improving our customers’ quality of life and redefining what’s possible in pharmacy.

Be Part of a Great Place to Work — Join Our Team

Hear first-hand from members of the Alto technology teams.

Read the latest Alto blog posts covering healthcare, family health, managing diseases, and other Alto highlights.

Blog | Alto Pharmacy

Starting Monday, August 16, residents of the San Diego metro area can now choose Alto's same-day doorstep delivery for their pharmacy needs.

Hello, San Diego!

Alto's launch in San Diego extends our free, same-day pharmacy delivery model to even more Californians.

Starting today, August 15th, residents of the San Diego metro area can now choose Alto’s same-day doorstep delivery for their pharmacy needs. 

At Alto, we believe it’s our job to ensure you have your medications at the best price, on time and with the support you need. We bring pharmacy to you - no more waiting in line, making an extra trip, or finding out your prescription isn’t ready to be picked up after you’ve already arrived. Our free doorstep delivery means your medications come directly to you on the day and time you select, and most medications are available the same-day. Stay up to date on your courier’s progress with text alerts or in our mobile app. 

Starting a new medication or doing an injection for the first time? Message a pharmacist with your questions, even in the evenings and on weekends. And we’re a full service pharmacy - we stock all major brand, generic, over-the-counter and specialty medications, meaning your entire family’s pharmacy needs can be managed in the Alto app and coordinated into one delivery.

Courier delivery windows
Monday - Friday: 6 - 9 pm PT (6:30 - 9:30 pm PT for outlying areas)
Saturday - Sunday: 2 - 5 pm PT (2:30 - 5:30 pm PT for outlying areas)

Walk-in hours
Monday - Friday: 9 am – 7 pm PT
Saturday - Sunday: 10 am - 6 pm pT

San Diego residents interested in using Alto’s services for their medication needs can ask their doctor’s office to send all prescriptions to Alto Pharmacy (via ePrescribe, phone or fax). 

Have existing prescriptions at another pharmacy? Start a transfer online or give us a call at 1 (800) 874-5881, and we’ll handle the switch. 

Need to pick up? Our pharmacy is located at 4240 Kearny Mesa Road, Suite 107.

General customer support hours are Monday - Friday 6 am - 9 pm PT and Saturday - Sunday 7 am - 6 pm PT. Patients can reach out to Alto via phone/text at 1 (800) 874-5881, email or app.

Founded in 2015, Alto is a patient-centric digital pharmacy based committed to the health and wellbeing of you and your family. We provide free same-day delivery to your door seven days a week for prescriptions, but, more importantly, offer cost transparency, personalized in-app and phone support, and real-time coordination with doctors and insurance companies to get you the care that you need. Alto is headquartered in San Francisco with offices in Denver and currently delivers across the greater SF Bay Area, Los Angeles, Orange County, Seattle, Denver, Las Vegas, New York City, Houston and Dallas.

Lung cancer screening, a test that detects the cancer before any symptoms have appeared, is critical for anyone with a high risk of lung cancer. Here's what to know.

What to Know About Lung Cancer Screening

Lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women, is more likely to be cured when detected early. The five-year survival rate is about 60% when the disease is confined to one lung. 

However, the majority of cases are diagnosed after the cancer has already spread to both lungs or other organs, at which point  the five-year survival rate is 20% or less. Delayed diagnoses are due in part to the fact that lung cancer symptoms often do not appear until the disease has progressed to more advanced stages.

This is why lung cancer screening, a test that detects the cancer before any symptoms have appeared, is critical for anyone with a high risk of lung cancer. Some studies have found that screening detects 80% of lung cancer cases at an early stage. Read on to learn more about what to expect during lung cancer screening and whether it may be right for you.

Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer, contributing to 80-90% of lung cancer fatalities. However, there are additional risk factors to developing lung cancer:

Exposure to radon, a naturally occurring gas that can get trapped in houses and buildings, and the second leading cause of lung cancer

Exposure to asbestos or other carcinogens like uranium, diesel exhaust, and inhaled chemicals in the workplace

Radiation therapy to the chest during cancer treatment

While lung cancer symptoms typically appear once the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage, some people do experience some of the following early signs of lung cancer:

A cough that does not go away or gets worse

Chest pain that often worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing

Infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia that don’t go away or keep coming back

Many of these symptoms overlap with those of other respiratory conditions like COPD, and you should schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Even if you do not have lung cancer, it’s important to identify the cause of these symptoms and treat them, if needed.

What happens during lung cancer screening?

During your lung cancer screening, doctors will use a non-invasive test known as a low-dose computerized tomography (LDCT) scan to search for abnormal spots in the lungs that could be cancer. 

During the scan, you will lie still on a long table as it slides through a machine that uses a low level of radiation — about half of what you’re exposed to naturally from the environment every year, and much less than what you’d be exposed to in a standard CT scan — to create images of your lungs. It is painless and will take less than a minute.

If you are experiencing signs of a respiratory infection such as congestion, runny nose, sore throat, and body aches, or if you recently recovered from one, let your doctor know as it may affect the results of an LDCT scan. They will let you know if you should reschedule.

There are several possible outcomes of an LDCT scan. If the screening test detects abnormal spots, often called a nodule, you may need additional tests to determine if you have lung cancer. 

For small nodules, doctors often recommend another LDCT scan after a few months to see if the nodule has grown. If the nodule is bigger, your doctor may order additional testing like a positron emission tomography (PET) scan or a biopsy, a procedure that removes a piece of the nodule for lab testing, to find out if it is cancerous.

In cases where lung cancer screening does not detect any abnormal spots, your doctor may recommend continuing with annual screening depending on your risk.

Since lung cancer screening involves exposure to radiation, doctors primarily reserve screening for people at high risk of developing lung cancer, namely older adults who have smoked heavily for many years. 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) — an independent group of prevention experts who help healthcare providers make informed recommendations for their patients — recommends annual LDCT lung cancer screening for people who meet each of the following criteria:

Have a 20 pack year or more smoking history

Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years

A “pack year” is defined as smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for a year.  The 20 pack year history threshold could be met by smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years. It’s important to share all the details of your smoking history with your doctor so they can determine if you would benefit from lung cancer screening.

Your doctor may also recommend lung cancer screening if you were treated for lung cancer more than five years ago, have another serious lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a family history of lung cancer, or have been exposed to asbestos at work.

They will also take your overall health into account, as lung cancer screening is typically recommended for individuals who would be physically able to tolerate treatment for early-stage lung cancer and lung surgery, if it is needed.

While lung cancer screening saves lives — without screening, 70% of lung cancer cases would be detected at a later stage — it carries some risks, like all screening procedures.

First, while the level of radiation you are exposed to during an LDCT scan is not significant, it can potentially become harmful with repeated scans. In addition, when screening for any disease, doctors will sometimes find abnormalities that look cancerous but are not, which is referred to as a false positive. They may also find cancers that grow so slowly they would never lead to symptoms.

The frequency of false positives continues to decline every year. Currently, about 12-14% of lung cancer screenings have a false positive, similar to the rates for mammograms. False positives are even less common with continued annual LDCT screening since it is easier to identify notable changes between the scans. 

Plus, as the technology behind lung cancer screening evolves, doctors have a clearer understanding of who actually needs follow-up testing after the initial LDCT scan. Ultimately, it is important to discuss the benefits and risks of lung cancer screening with your doctor and work together to determine if you would benefit from it.

At Alto, we go above and beyond to help you stay on track with your doctor’s recommendations, getting you the medication you need at the best price possible. And our team of patient care pharmacists is also here to chat whenever questions come up.

Switch to a better pharmacy for free same-day delivery and support with insurance and savings opportunities. Reach out any time via text or phone at 1-800-874-5881, or in-app messaging.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Practicing preventative health is critical to detecting health issues early on, when they are more treatable, and lowering your risk of developing conditions that are otherwise avoidable.

Prioritize Your Health with Preventative Care

If you’ve ever waited until you’re sick to see a doctor, you’re not alone. Many adults in the U.S. put off routine doctor’s appointments — sometimes even when they don’t feel well. 

These delays can be serious: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 40% of all fatalities linked to the five leading causes of death in the U.S. — heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke, and unintentional injuries — could have been prevented. Untreated blood pressure or cholesterol and unhealthy lifestyle habits factors heavily into many of these cases.

Practicing preventative health is critical to detecting health issues early on, when they are more treatable, and lowering your risk of developing conditions that are otherwise avoidable. Preventative care involves a combination of annual check-ups, vaccinations, screenings, and healthy lifestyle habits. 

If you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, don’t get discouraged. The important thing is to get back in the habit. Below is an overview of preventative care for both men and women, with recommendations from our pharmacists for how to ensure you’re prioritizing your health.

There are several important numbers that help your doctor understand your risk for health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes: your body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.

Being overweight or obese increases your risk for many different health conditions, including high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. 

Body mass index (BMI) is a screening tool that doctors use for obesity. A healthy BMI is typically between 18.5 to 24.9, while a BMI between 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight and a BMI of 30 or higher is obese.

Keep in mind that while a BMI does help doctors understand your general risk for the chronic conditions mentioned above, it is merely a snapshot of your health and doesn’t account for other important health factors including age and genetics. Your healthcare provider can help you understand your overall priorities with preventative care beyond any single number, which is another important reason to stay up to date with doctor’s appointments.

Your blood pressure numbers are one of several factors that can help your doctor predict your risk for heart disease and cardiac events like a heart attack or stroke. There are five different blood pressure ranges recognized by the American Heart Association:

If your blood pressure is in the normal range, you should get screened at least once per year. If your blood pressure is in a higher range, consult with your doctor about recommended screening frequency.

Read our previous blog to learn more about managing blood pressure.

A cholesterol blood test, also called a lipid profile or lipid panel, gives results for several different readings: HDL (good) cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides, and total blood (or serum) cholesterol. Your total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol levels are particularly important in helping your doctor identify if you are at risk for a heart attack or stroke.

A healthy range for total cholesterol is considered to be less than 200 mg/dL

A healthy range for HDL cholesterol is considered to be higher than 40 mg/dL for men and higher than 50 mg/dL for women

A healthy range for LDL cholesterol is considered to be less than 100 mg/dL

These targets are intended to be general guidelines, and each individual’s health needs are different. Having type 2 diabetes, smoking, being overweight, and not getting enough physical activity can affect your cholesterol levels. Your healthcare provider can help you determine your personal targets.

If your total cholesterol is under 200 mg/dL, you can have your cholesterol checked every 4-6 years. If you are at higher risk for heart disease and stroke, consult your doctor about recommended screening frequency.

Your blood glucose numbers can help your doctor determine if you have diabetes or are at risk for developing it. A blood sugar level under 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L) is typical considered healthy, while a reading between 140 and 199 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L and 11.0 mmol/L) may indicate prediabetes and a reading over 200 mg/dL may indicate diabetes. A discussion of these numbers with your healthcare provider is required for an official diagnosis of diabetes.

Generally speaking, if your blood glucose numbers are under 140 mg/dL, you should get screened at least every three years. If you have prediabetes you will need more frequent screening.

If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider can help you develop individualized targets for healthy blood sugar levels, which may be different from the numbers above. Try not to worry about what “normal” looks like for other people, and focus instead on taking simple actions to control your diabetes and live your healthiest life, like staying active and quitting unhealthy habits.

You should have an annual check-up once per calendar year. This appointment is the foundation of preventative care: since each individual’s risk for specific preventable health conditions may vary, discussing your personal health history and vital signs with your doctor will help you determine which preventative measures to prioritize.

In addition to checking with your physician about which vaccines, screenings, and medical tests you need, ask if your family history indicates an increased risk for any health conditions.

Prevention and screening become more important as you age. Regular colorectal cancer screening is recommended for everyone 50 and over. If you have risk factors like an immediate family member with colorectal cancer, your doctor may suggest earlier screening.

The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for all women between 45 and 54. Some women begin screening for breast cancer as early as age 40 depending on their risk and family history. Women 55 and older can continue with yearly mammograms or switch to every two years. Your doctor can help you determine the right screening frequency for your individual needs. 

Preventative health doesn’t just happen in your doctor’s office. Everyday choices like what you eat and how often you exercise can protect your health for years to come.

Staying active is one of the most important things you can do to prevent cardiovascular disease and maintain a healthy weight. If you’re just starting to figure out your ideal exercise routine, know that you don’t have to exert yourself too hard to reap the benefits of physical activity. Even just 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week can help strengthen your heart.

Everyone should do their best to limit their intake of the following foods, but it’s especially important if you face a greater risk for heart disease or diabetes:

Saturated and trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol

Sodium, which may increase your blood pressure

Sweets and sugar-sweetened beverages, which have been linked to both type 2 diabetes and an increased risk for heart disease

Other things you can do to stay healthy? Chronic stress can elevate your blood pressure, putting you at a greater risk for heart attack and stroke, so try to manage stress in heart-healthy ways like getting enough sleep, maintaining a fulfilling social life, and practicing mindfulness and gratitude. And it’s never a bad time to cut back on your alcohol consumption and quit smoking, if you currently smoke.

Prioritizing your physical and mental well-being today can help you prevent health issues in the future. We’re here to help make that as simple as possible.

At Alto, a pharmacist is your partner in health. If you take medication, we will work with your doctor, your insurance (if applicable), and any third party savings programs that you may qualify for to make your medications as affordable as possible. And our team of patient care pharmacists is available to chat whenever questions come up. Reach out via text or phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in our app.

Hypercoagulation, or excessive blood clotting, can be treated with anticoagulants — a class of medications that reduce the blood’s ability to form new clots and prevent existing clots from growing.

How Anticoagulants Prevent Blood Clots From Forming

Blood clotting to stop bleeding, or coagulation, is a normal part of the body’s healing process after a cut or other type of injury. However, excessive blood clotting, or hypercoagulation, may occur when clots form too easily while blood moves normally through the body. Hypercoagulation can be serious: when a blood clot develops in the arteries, it may lead to a stroke, heart attack, leg pain, or other serious health complications.

Some people are born with a tendency to form blood clots, while in other cases the condition may develop as a result of surgery, trauma, a medical condition, or prescription medication usage.

Medical conditions that may lead to hypercoagulation include:

Atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rate condition 

Heart attack, congestive heart failure, stroke, and other illnesses that lead to less physical activity

Antiphospholipid syndrome, a condition in which the immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that make your blood more likely to clot

Previous history of deep vein thrombosis — typically a blood clot in the deep veins in your legs — or pulmonary embolism — a blood clot in the arteries in your lungs

Bone marrow and blood diseases including polycythemia vera, a blood cancer that thickens your blood, and essential thrombocytosis, a rare disorder in which your body produces too many platelets

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, a rare blood condition in which your immune system attacks red blood cells

Nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder in which the urine contains too much protein

Medications that may lead to hypercoagulation include:

Supplemental estrogen, including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy

Certain cancer medications such as tamoxifen, a breast cancer medication that activates estrogen in bone and liver cells; bevacizumab, a medication used to treat a variety of cancers and which blocks a protein responsible for blood vessel production; thalidomide, a medication used to treat a variety of cancers of which blood clots are a known side effect, particularly for patients 65 and older; and lenalidomide, a medication used to treat certain blood cancers of which blood clots are a known side effect

With many of these medications, the risk of developing blood clots is low, but individuals with a previous history of blood clots or an underlying condition linked to hypercoagulation face a greater risk. 

If you are prescribed one of these medications, be sure to inform your doctor of your medical history, including any other medications you currently take, and ask about the potential benefits and risks of using them. And if you experience any of the primary signs of a blood clot — shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg pain or swelling — contact your doctor immediately.

Hypercoagulation can be treated with anticoagulants, a class of medications that reduce the blood’s ability to form new clots and prevent existing clots from growing. These medications are primarily prescribed when a blood clot develops in a vein or artery or as a preventative measure for people who face a higher risk for blood clots due to an underlying medical condition. They work by interrupting the body’s natural blood clotting process.

There are three main types of anticoagulant medications that act on different parts of the blood clotting process to prevent irregular blood clots: vitamin K antagonists, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), and low-molecular weight heparins.

Vitamin K, commonly found in green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach, helps your blood clot. Warfarin (brand name options include Coumadin® and Jantoven®) — one of the most common treatments for blood clotting disorders — is a vitamin K antagonist that prevents your liver from processing vitamin K into “factors,” or proteins that control your bleeding and help form blood clots. It is taken orally as tablets.

Warfarin is so commonly prescribed because of its proven effectiveness: it has been in use longer than other anticoagulants and reduces the rate of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation by 60%. It is also easier than other anticoagulants to reverse if you experience sudden bleeding from an injury or during surgery.

Because warfarin is so effective at preventing blood clotting, one of the main side effects is bleeding. The risk of serious bleeding is low, but you may bleed or bruise more easily after even small injuries. Difficulty stopping a nosebleed is also common.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding or bruising, including heavier than normal menstrual bleeding, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Joint pain, discomfort or swelling, especially after an injury

Bruising that develops without an injury you remember

You will need to get frequent blood tests when taking warfarin to evaluate blood clotting and the medication’s effectiveness. Your doctor may choose to adjust your dosage based on your test results, which is why it's important to stay up to date with lab appointments.

Here are additional tips to avoid side effects and complications while taking warfarin:

Wear a medical ID bracelet to ensure that you receive proper medical care in an emergency situation.

Anticoagulants can interact with other medications. Speak to your doctor before taking any other medication, including over-the-counter medications or supplements.

Warfarin is not safe to take during pregnancy. If you are planning to become pregnant, speak with your doctor about switching to an alternate medication.

Consult with your doctor about dietary recommendations, as certain foods, particularly those that are high in vitamin K, can affect how warfarin works.

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban (Eliquis®), betrixaban (Bevyxxa®), dabigatran (Pradaxa®), edoxaban (Savaysa®), and rivaroxaban (Xarelto®) directly block the blood’s ability to form clots. They are the newest class of anticoagulants, having been first introduced into the market in 2010.

These medications offer some advantages in contrast to other anticoagulants. Unlike warfarin, they do not require regular lab work. They are also less likely to interact with food, so there aren’t any dietary restrictions. There are FDA-approved antidotes for dabigatran, apixaban, and rivaroxaban to stop excessive bleeding in the event of trauma or emergency surgery.

On the other hand, DOACs are shorter-acting than vitamin K antagonists, so missing even one dose can make you vulnerable to blood clot formation.

The most serious side effect to watch for is uncontrolled bleeding, though it is rare. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy or unusual bleeding or bruising.

Some studies also suggest that DOACs may be unsafe to take while pregnant. If you are planning on getting pregnant, speak with your healthcare provider about alternate medications.

Avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen while taking a DOAC, and wear a medical ID bracelet to ensure proper medical treatment in the event of an emergency.

This medication class, which includes dalteparin (Fragmin®) and enoxaparin (Lovenox®), is primarily used for short periods of time to treat or prevent a deep vein thrombosis — a blood clot in the body’s deep veins, often in the legs. It can also reduce your risk of pulmonary embolism, a blockage in your lung arteries as the result of a blood clot.

In contrast to other anticoagulants, LMWHs are often used as a bridge to longer-term use of another anticoagulant such as warfarin, though some people take LMWHs for longer periods of time. They can be administered via IV drip in hospitals or doctors’ offices or through subcutaneous injections at home once or twice a day. No blood tests are required.

Redness, irritation, and bruising at the site of infection

Consult your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking an LMWH, and make sure they are aware of any other medications you take. In particular, NSAIDs can increase your risk of bleeding while taking LMWHs.

Choose a reliable and flexible pharmacy partner

Alto makes it as simple as possible to follow the treatment your doctor recommends. We offer same-day delivery and medication management tools like dose reminders and auto refills in our app. Our team of patient care pharmacists is also available to walk you through dosage instructions and answer your questions. Reach out via text or phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging to get started.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

We answer common questions about insurance coverage for prescription medications, including how we go above and beyond to ensure that you’re receiving your medications on time and at the lowest price possible.

How does Alto Pharmacy work with insurance?

Getting the medication you need often involves more than just receiving a prescription from your doctor and filling it at a pharmacy. And navigating the complexities of insurance coverage, from copays and deductibles to formularies and medication tiers, can be a particularly big source of stress.

A great pharmacy partner makes sure you’re never alone in working through the details of your insurance plan’s pharmacy benefits. At Alto, we tackle all of the insurance-related legwork for you and give you the information you need to understand the process.

Below, we’ve answered some common questions about insurance coverage for prescription medications, including how we go above and beyond to ensure that you’re receiving your medications on time and at the lowest price possible.

How do I know how much my medication will cost at Alto?

When you get started with Alto, we’ll automatically pull in any insurance information we can find. If you have additional coverage, just let us know and we’ll add it to your profile. For each prescription, we’ll check with your primary (and secondary) insurance plan to pull your copay amount — the amount you owe out of pocket for your medications — including any possible savings. (More about that below!)

Sometimes paying cash for your medications, separate from insurance benefits, will be cheaper than your copay. If that’s the case, we’ll let you know the different pricing options so you can make an informed choice.

By checking every available savings option, automatically, every time! Unlike traditional pharmacies, Alto is proactive about applying potential sources of savings like manufacturer coupons, patient assistant programs, and copay cards wherever applicable. We’ll automatically start looking for these opportunities the minute we receive your prescription, and we’ll keep you informed of any savings options that require you to apply directly with the program or manufacturer.

Learn more about how Alto saves you money on your prescriptions.

Here’s another way we’re different from traditional pharmacies: we’ll continue searching for less expensive medication options even after we’ve researched savings opportunities.  You’re in the driver’s seat, and if you would like support in identifying other medication options that may be covered by your insurance at better rates, we’ll work with your doctor to evaluate those choices.

Insurance companies categorize medications into tiers based on various factors such as whether the medications are generic or brand-name and how frequently they are prescribed. Medications in higher tiers generally include non-preferred brands and specialty medications for rare conditions, and these typically cost more than medications from a lower formulary tier.

Keep in mind that generic medications use the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts, and they must meet the same standards for safety, quality, and results in order to get FDA approval.

I’ve heard of an insurance “formulary.” What does that mean?

Every health insurance plan has a list of covered generic and brand-name medications, called a formulary, which you can locate online or by calling your plan. It includes the tiers mentioned above, indicating which medications are preferred by your insurer and therefore offered at a lower out-of-pocket cost.

When deciding whether to renew your current health insurance coverage or select a different plan for the new year, you may want to check the formularies to determine if your current medications will be covered. Read our previous blog to learn more about what to consider when reviewing insurance coverage options every year.

What if my insurance denies coverage of my medication?

If a medication isn’t on the formulary at all, you may have the option of submitting a prior authorization to prove the medical necessity of the medication and gain coverage from your insurance plan.

If a prior authorization is needed, we can work with your doctor to submit the necessary paperwork. We’ll keep both you and your doctor in the loop throughout the process so you know the current status of the request until your insurance provider has made a decision. If your prior authorization request is denied, we will work with your doctor to either process an appeal or find a different treatment option.

Read our previous post, ‘What is a Prior Authorization?’ to learn more about how Alto can help you navigate this process.

A pharmacy partner that’s always on your side

At Alto, we go above and beyond to help you stay on track with your doctor’s recommendations, getting you the medication you need at the best price possible.

How Does Alto Pharmacy Work with Health Insurance? We Answer Your Top Questions.

How Alto Pharmacy works with health insurance

How does Alto Pharmacy work with insurance? We answer your top questions.

What Updated CDC Guidelines Mean for PrEP Access

For the first time since 2017, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is updating its guidelines for PrEP, a medication that can lower risk of sexual transmission of HIV by 99% when taken daily. The new guidelines — which inform local healthcare policies and doctors’ decision-making processes — address key barriers to PrEP access, including a lack of provider awareness about PrEP and patient reluctance to disclose sexual activity or drug use. 

Moving forward, the CDC has recommended that healthcare providers share information about PrEP with any patient who is sexually active, and that any patient can receive a prescription for PrEP if requested.

Here is some additional context about the forthcoming updates, which should go into effect before the end of the year, pending revisions based upon feedback from experts.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, 1 in 3 healthcare providers has not heard about PrEP. There are countless others who are aware of the medication but don’t have all the facts.

Under current guidelines, many doctors only share information about PrEP with patients who presently have multiple partners or a partner who is HIV-positive or unsure of their HIV status. In reality, more people could benefit from PrEP, including those who are single and sexually active.

Some healthcare professionals also falsely believe that PrEP and condom use are mutually exclusive. Many people have felt shamed when asking for PrEP due to their healthcare provider’s stigmatized perceptions of traditional PrEP users. 

Under the new, soon-to-be-implemented federal guidelines for PrEP, anyone who is sexually active should receive PrEP information from their healthcare provider, including adolescents. Given that many traditional sex education programs in schools throughout the U.S. aren’t providing LGBTQIA+ youth with the resources they need to stay safe and healthy, the new guidelines are an important step toward more inclusive sexual education.

Opening up the conversation about HIV prevention to more individuals aligns with what Dr. Lisa Sterman, MD, MPH, shared during a conversation with Alto in October 2020.

“A lot of people may think, ‘I’m not at risk’ or, ‘that’s not my group of people,’” Sterman said. “The way I teach it is: if you’ve ever had sex, you’re at risk for HIV. If you’ve ever shared drug needles, you’re at risk for HIV. Everyone should know their status.”

Addressing fear of discrimination or stigma at the doctor’s office

Under current CDC guidelines, patients must share personal details about their sexual health or drug use with their doctors to get a PrEP prescription. However, many people at risk of contracting HIV don’t feel like they can speak openly with their healthcare providers, particularly LGBTQIA+ people of color, who face multiple forms of discrimination. 

Too often, this leads to negative health outcomes and disparities in HIV rates. The CDC’s new proposed guidelines for PrEP account for the fact that some patients may not feel comfortable disclosing personal information about their sexual health or drug use. 

While conversations between doctors and patients about PrEP will initially cover a patient’s sexual health history, the CDC is recommending that any patient can receive a prescription for PrEP if requested. This means that you can get PrEP without disclosing personal information related to your risk for HIV, another big step forward for PrEP access and HIV prevention.

There are more FDA-approved medication options for PrEP than ever before: Truvada®, Descovy®, and a generic for Truvada, which became available in October 2020. The following resources can connect you with a provider who will prescribe PrEP for you:

Alto will coordinate with your doctor and your insurance provider to ensure you’re receiving the best PrEP option for your needs at the most affordable price. And you can connect directly with pharmacists who have expertise in HIV prevention and treatment through phone, text, or within the Alto app.

Reach out any time to get started via text or phone at 1-800-874-5881, or in-app messaging.

With effective treatment, including blood pressure medications, you can live an active life. Learn about the common blood pressure medications and their side effects.

Common Types of Blood Pressure Medications

High blood pressure, which affects nearly half of all U.S. adults, occurs when the force of the blood flowing through your arteries is consistently too high, forcing the heart to work harder. Over time, high blood pressure can damage major organs including the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes and lead to life-threatening issues like heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

With effective treatment, including both heart-healthy lifestyle habits and prescription blood pressure medications, you can control your blood pressure and live an active life. There are a variety of blood pressure medications, and it may take some time for you and your doctor to determine the best treatment for your needs. The good news is that with so many available and effective medications, you’re likely to find one that’s right for you. Read on to learn more about the most common classes of blood pressure medications and their side effects.

Diuretics lower blood pressure by helping the body get rid of excess sodium and water, reducing the volume of fluid in blood vessels. They are often a frontline treatment for high blood pressure, as research studies have found them to be one of the most effective blood pressure medication classes at preventing stroke and heart attack fatalities.

Diuretics commonly used to treat high blood pressure include:

Chlorthalidone (Thalitone®, Tenoretic®, and Clorpres®)

Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDiuril®, Microzide®, and Esidrix®)

Common side effects of diuretics include dehydration, thirst, low sodium levels, headaches, and dizziness. In some cases, drinking more fluids isn’t enough to treat dehydration. Contact your doctor if you experience severe thirst, mouth dryness, or constipation; if your urine is a deep yellow; or if you have a bad headache. Taking multiple medications may exacerbate these side effects. To minimize medication interactions, speak with your doctor about the ideal timing of doses for each medication.

Some diuretics decrease your potassium levels, in which case you may experience weakness, leg cramps, or fatigue. Eating potassium-rich foods can help combat these side effects. Consult with your doctor about taking potassium supplements if you experience any of these symptoms.

Diuretics may increase blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Adjusting your diet or the dosages of your diabetes medication(s) often addresses this issue. Learn more about how Alto can support your diabetes treatment.

Beta blockers cause the heart to beat more slowly and less forcefully, lowering your blood pressure. They also help improve overall blood flow by opening up your veins and arteries.

Beta blockers commonly used to treat high blood pressure include:

Common side effects from taking beta blockers include:

Beta blockers may block signs of low blood sugar such as a rapid heart rate in people with diabetes. If you have diabetes and take insulin, it’s important to check blood sugar levels often while taking beta blockers.

These medications may also affect your cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Most often, they cause a modest increase in triglycerides, a type of fat found in your blood, and a slight decrease in HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or “good” cholesterol. These changes are usually temporary.

Beta blockers aren’t typically used by people with asthma, as they may trigger severe asthma attacks. Abruptly stopping use of beta-blockers may increase your risk of a heart attack or other health complications, especially if you have been taking the medication for a long time. Consult with your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of treating your hypertension with beta-blockers.

ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure by blocking production of a hormone called angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to narrow. These medications help constricted blood vessels expand so that more blood can flow through.

ACE inhibitors commonly used to treat high blood pressure include:

A chronic dry, hacking cough is one of the most common side effects of ACE inhibitors, affecting as many as 35% of people who take these medications. Researchers aren’t entirely sure why some people experience this side effect and not others, but the following factors may contribute to it:

Gender — women tend to be more susceptible

Studies have found that a combination of two or more of the factors above is needed to produce the side effect.

Cough medicines typically aren’t effective at treating an ACE inhibitor-related cough. In some cases, this side effect may improve on its own. If you are experiencing a cough from taking ACE inhibitors, the best course of action is to discuss the pros and cons of switching to another medication with your doctor.

With effective treatment, including both heart-healthy lifestyle habits and prescription blood pressure medications, you can control your blood pressure and live an active life. Read on to learn more about the most common classes of blood pressure medications and their side effects.

Blog

Hello, San Diego!

What to Know About Lung Cancer Screening

Prioritize Your Health with Preventative Care

How Anticoagulants Prevent Blood Clots From Forming

How Does Alto Pharmacy Work with Health Insurance? We Answer Your Top Questions.

What Updated CDC Guidelines Mean for PrEP Access

Common Types of Blood Pressure Medications

3 Alto Pharmacy Resources to Ease Your Fertility Journey

A Guide to Common Asthma Medications

What a USPSTF “A” Recommendation Means for PrEP Access

Preventative Steps to Take for Men's Health Month

What Your Heart Rate Can Tell You About Your Health

Switch to a better pharmacy.