Martin Lewis reveals ‘magic code’ to check on over-the-counter medicines that could save you money
MARTIN Lewis has revealed the 'magic codes' to look out for on over-the-counter medicines that could save you a fortune.
When looking for a specific medicine in a pharmacy, you may be bombarded with a range of different brands, all claiming to be better than the rest.
But Lewis' trick will help to show whether the meds are in-fact identical underneath their colourful packaging.
Lewis revealed that each pill packet has a PL code, a number that indicates a particular drug made by a particular manufacturer.
For example, PL 12063/0104 is a cold and flu remedy that can be found under the brands of Asda, Boots, Galpharm, and Wilko.
Despite their different packaging styles and prices, the product underneath it all is actually identical.
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The way you can check this is by looking at a packet's PL number, typically featured on the back side of the packaging.
If the number exactly matches up to a more expensive pill, you know you've found the bargain.
Some tablets may be half the price of their doppelgangers, Lewis claimed.
The founder of MoneySavingExpert (MSE) explained this in his alongside other saving tricks.
In the list, he also shone light on how hundreds of thousands of people could be overpaying for their prescription medicines.
Lewis said that often the medications listed on prescriptions can actually be accessed for free, or even just cheaper over-the-counter.
If you find yourself buying prescriptions frequently, a repay prescription certificate might save you a hefty sum.
His website described it as "a bit like a prescription season ticket" and that it "can mean big savings."
These certificates work best for people who get at least one prescription every month.
There are two prepayment options:
- Three-month prepayment certificate - £32.05
- 12-month prepayment certificate - £114.50
Compared to paying £9.90 for a prescription item each month, the certificate can make a huge saving.
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How to bag a bargain
SUN Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to find a cut-price item and bag a bargain…
Sign up to loyalty schemes of the brands that you regularly shop with.
Big names regularly offer discounts or special lower prices for members, among other perks.
Sales are when you can pick up a real steal.
Retailers usually have periodic promotions that tie into payday at the end of the month or Bank Holiday weekends, so keep a lookout and shop when these deals are on.
Sign up to mailing lists and you’ll also be first to know of special offers. It can be worth following retailers on social media too.
When buying online, always do a search for money off codes or vouchers that you can use and are just two sites that round up promotions by retailer.
Scanner apps are useful to have on your phone. app has a scanner that you can use to compare prices on branded items when out shopping.
Bargain hunters can also use B&M’s scanner in the app to find discounts in-store before staff have marked them out.
And always check if you can get cashback before paying which in effect means you’ll get some of your money back or a discount on the item.