The news has been widely circulated regarding a new list of potential problem drugs, which has been published by the Food and Drug Administration.

What is not being widely addressed however, are the reasons for the list and what is (or is not) being done about the named pharmaceuticals which appear on it. The first potential problem drug list, which contains some names as familiar as insulin, Ivermectin and nitroglycerin, is a simple table of drug names and the "potential" problems which may be occurring with them.

Pharmaceutical industry pundits are quick to assert that the appearance of a drug's name on the list is not to be interpreted as indicating an actual problem with the drug or its use. They assert that the list merely names drugs which have generated reports of concern from hospitals, doctors, and patients.

If you're having trouble with the high costs at the pharmacy and you're being forced to choose between putting a meat loaf on the table or following doctor's orders, then you need to know that there's a bucket load of options available to you for seeking help to pay for your prescription medications.

You can start out by calling the customer service department of the company which manufactures your medication. If you don't know who makes it, ask your pharmacist for help. When you call the manufacturer, make it clear that you are having trouble paying for your medications. You'll probably be surprised at how quickly they try to help you by referring you to programs or agencies that can help you.

While you're talking to your pharmacist ask them if they can provide any additional options for you. There are programs at the county, state and federal levels which seek to provide assistance with prescription costs and your pharmacist should know about these programs. Don't forget to ask your pharmacist about generic alternatives also.

Even if you're not a member, you might consult with AARP.

Optometrists are (if you want my opinion) one of the Nation's Greatest Rackets. Right up there with dentists. Why should consumers be forced to get a new prescription every two years? Sure, it might be good for your eyes, but chances are you'd be better off using an old prescription than using an assortment of fine duct tape to keep your old pair together, or going broke getting a new one.

In this day of internet commerce, shouldn't things be better? Shouldn't we just be able to plug our numbers (whether we've been to the optometrist recently or no) into the computer and get a good deal and see all at once? In my family, with a clumsy mama (me) and a nearly-blind daddy (my husband), it's kind of mandatory.

Glassy Eyes can get you there. The site has deals with a number of major eyeglasses sites where you can find a pair of prescription frames and lenses for between $25 and $100, including shipping. I picked out a great pair of funky glasses for a total of $40.05 from 39dollarglasses.com. Matt Haughey of 43 Folders recently bought several new pairs for the price of one fashionable set of frames from an optometrist, and wrote up a detailed review of his experience.