How Much Does eHarmony Cost?

eHarmony, considered to be the leading dating site for those seeking long-term relationships online, is deemed to be on the most reputable dating websites online with no fake profiles or scammers looking to rip you off.  It has claimed to be responsible for more than 550 marriages per day, making a popular destination site for those who are looking for that serious relationship as most of the people who do join are marriage minded and are specifically looking for their soulmate.

As with most dating websites, however, matching up with a potential soulmate will come at a price.

“love” (CC BY 2.0) by Iroas

How much does it cost to join eHarmony?

The costs of eHarmony will depend on how long you commit to the service as the longer you do commit, the lower the monthly price will be.  Like most dating websites, you can start for free, but you’re going to be limited to viewing just the profiles and you can receive access to the “Book of You” feature which highlights more of your unique personality traits.   You can also take advantage of a free trial, and in order to take advantage, you will create an account, fill out your information, act like you’re paying for a plan and cancel within 72 hours (3 days) to get the full amount refunded to you.

Refer to our table below to see what it will cost to join the dating service as of 2018:

Aside from the subscription costs mentioned above, the company also offers a package known as the “Total Connect Plan,” which costs a few more dollars than the basic plans, often about $1 to $5 more, mentioned above, but it will offer more features that you cannot get on the basic plan.

The plan options

The company offers three types of plans:  the Basic plan, the TotalConnect plan, and the Premier option.

Basic plan:  the Basic plan allows you to do everything you can do with a free plan, but you will also be able to see who viewed your profile, receive unlimited messages, browse the “What If’ matches and even view the hidden users, which are the potential matches are no longer able to be contacted.

TotalConnect plan:  For the ultimate experience, the TotalConnect plan allows you to receive all of the features in the Basic plan, plus the ability to verify your identity via RelyID, make secure calls with your matches via private calls and access to the premium Book of You.  These costs, as we mentioned, will cost about $5 to $10 per month, again, depending on how long you commit to the service.

Premier plan:  The Premier plan is not advertised as much, but it does exist with a bit of digging.  This option is more personalized than the TotalConnect plan and allows you the “ultimate guarantee,” which is an option that will extend your membership 12 months if you don’t find a match.  They also allow you to take a break for up to three months, access to expert dating advice, three free one-month subscriptions you can share with your friends and personalized advice from the eHarmony team.  This option is said to be about in the $40 a month range, but it will require a 12-month commitment to activate.

eHarmony comparison

How does eHarmony work?

The system, designed by Dr. Neil Clark Warren, in the last 1990s, believed that he could do something to help find a partner instead of leaving it to “fate.”  To do so, he designed a system, while serving as a psychologist and counselor at the time.

In comparison to the other big name dating websites, such as Match.com, eHarmony works in a slightly different way.  Because it’s deemed a true matchmaking service, it will take the results from your personality questionnaire to match you with other members on the website who share the same beliefs, values, and interests, to name a few.  While there is no search option, the company will match you every day via your dashboard and email.  Because it is so unique and innovative, the entire system was awarded a U.S. patent.

Tips to know

When you sign up, be forewarned about the automatic renewals if you do not cancel your plan.  Like most dating services, at the date of your expiration, your account will automatically renew for the same duration you signed up for in the first place.  So, for example, if you signed up for a six-month plan, your account will renew at a six-month plan on your six-month date.

As mentioned above, the company does offer a 3-day window, allowing you try the service.  This is a great time to create a full profile, upload pictures and answer as many questions as you can to see how the service works.  Try your best to use the service as much as you can within the 72 hours to see if it’s something you want to commit to.  If not, you will need to cancel before that 3-day window expires in order to get your money back.

If you’re a first-time customer, consider looking at this list of coupon codes on Groupon.com to see if you can save even more money on the full price.

Pay very close to the total cost of the membership.  As the prices do change, you may find that a two-year deal may actually be cheaper than a one-year membership.  If you do consider signing up, the website often presents you with the monthly costs, not the annual fee, so you will want to total the annual costs to see which option is best for your wallet.

Occasionally, eHarmony offers a free communication weekend event, allowing all members to test the service with no obligation, and in some cases, they even hold local events, where you can attend and take advantage of a free membership opportunity as well.

Comments (0)

How Much Does Zoosk Cost?

If you’re currently looking for an online dating service, there’s probably a good chance you landed upon the name, Zoosk.

Being around since 2007, it has more than 40 million members, slightly more than Match.com, according to the official website.

While this may mean more matches for you, it does come at a cost.

“love” (CC BY 2.0) by Iroas

Does Zoosk cost money?

Like many dating websites, Zoosk does offer a free membership option; however, with this free option, you’re only able to create a profile, browse other singles, send winks and even receive chat requests.  But in order to access the many other features, such as send and reply to messages, then you will need to pay a monthly subscription.

According to the official website’s FAQ, they have three subscription options:  6, 3 and occasionally, they may offer a one-month option.  Depending on the subscription plan you choose and the payment type you choose, the costs will vary.  To make things easier, we compiled the prices we found online in our table below:

NOTE:  The monthly subscription can only get you so far, and as we explain next, you will need to purchase coins to do even more.

Aside from the subscription option, users can also purchase what’s known as “Zoosk coins.”  These virtual coins, while optional, will unlock and allow you to access premium features that allow you to stand out and promote yourself.  According to this FAQ, coins help promote yourself with “boost,” unlock matches in the carousel, buy virtual gifts for other Zoosk members and you can get delivery confirmations when your message was opened.  Both paid subscribers and free members can purchase coins to take advantage of these coins.  As for the price of the coins, once again, we broke down the costs in our table below since the more you purchase, the more you’re going to save.

How does Zoosk work?

When signed up, users can create their profile in a matter of minutes.  Once live, members will show as matches in their local zip code area and you will be able to search as well.  The “scientific” matching service will ask you multiple compatibility questions, linking you with prospective members in your area depending on the number of questions you answer.  Once a day, the website will send you one match, in which you can either accept or deny.  As with most dating platforms, the more questions you answer, the more matches you may receive.

Aside from the premium features, the company also offers virtual coins, an optional option for both paid and free members.  With these coins, you can send gifts, receive message confirmations and unlock additional matches.

Other features include the Zoosk messenger, allowing you to chat with other members, and the news feed, which connects your Facebook to the platform, allowing you to see updated profile information, photos and more.

Tips to know

The company maintains a strict no refund policy, including all Zoosk coin purchases and subscriptions.  The company mentions you need to cancel your subscription before the renewal date to avoid any unwanted future costs.  Many people claim to have a hard time deactivating their account, but it can be done so by following these directions.

The company does offer promotional codes for first-time customers, so be sure to be on the lookout for them before signing up.  According to the FAQ, promotional codes can only be redeemed when purchasing with a credit card.  Aside from promotional codes, free trials may exist as well, offering you a premium subscription for up to 30 days.

Be forewarned when purchasing coins.  According to the fine print, if your coin balance falls below 20 coins, then you will automatically be charged for a new coin package in the same amount of your original purchase.

Comments (0)

Tongue and Groove Ceiling Cost

A tongue and groove ceiling will run along the same lines as the beam and is often seen in a vaulted ceiling.

Available in many designs, most commonly known as “rustic” feel, the costs will often be much more than a traditional drywalled ceiling or drop ceiling due to the material being used.

“Pine Ceiling in Attic – Strawbale House” (CC BY 2.0) by Red Moon Sanctuary

Tongue and groove ceiling cost per square foot

The costs of a tongue and groove ceiling will depend on various factors, including the contractor you hire, the materials you chose (the biggest factor), the complexity of your ceiling (height/width and obstacles, for example) and your geographical region.  With so many factors in play, it can be hard to offer an exact price, however, based on the quotes we researched online, your quote should be within the $4.50 to $8.50 per square range, with most of the price being applied to the wood material, if you were to hire a contractor.  This price would not include the costs of refinishing the wood if need be.  Browse the materials at Home Depot, for example, to see what popular boards, for the material alone, will cost.

As it is very difficult to offer an “exact” price, you can get one if you use HomeAdvisor.com.  With this free, no-obligation tool, you can input your project information, and with this, licensed contractors in your area can contact you with quotes.  It’s free to use and no credit card is required.

According to this BobVila.com article, the author claimed he paid $1,450 for the tongue-and-groove boards only and another $1,400 for the labor.  For his project, it took three days for both the carpenter and his helper to complete the work.

On this FineHomeBuilding.com forum thread, a member asked about the average costs of a tongue and groove ceiling, with one member, in particular, responding that it really depends on your market and if it’s finished or unfinished.  For unfinished boards, you could be closer to $3~ per square foot, but for finished boards, the costs could be almost double this.

We did mention the Home Depot link above, but you can also check out prices at AdvantageLumber.com as well to see what the boards may cost.  As mentioned, the costs per linear foot can vary depending on the size, the type of wood and where you purchase it from.  Glancing at this list, we did notice the averages, based on the factors mentioned, could range from 42 to more than $6+ per linear foot for just the materials.

Pros of a tongue and groove ceiling

When being installed, it’s much easier to lift the ceiling planks individually as it will weigh much less than a sheet of drywall.

Compared to drywall, a tongue and groove ceiling creates a focal point in the room, creating an attractive and sometimes rustic look homeowners are looking for.

As you can cut the boards to size, it can be installed in virtually any situation.

Cons of a tongue and groove ceiling

In the future or even at the time of the install, it can be difficult to paint.

When compared to drywall, it isn’t as soundproof as you want it to be.

The installation time is often much slower when compared to drywall, often increasing the labor costs if hiring a carpenter.  If you were to compare the prices to drywall, you’re probably going to pay at least 50% more on average.

Tips to know

Most tongue and groove ceiling will be made of either 1×6 or 1×8 spruce, according to FamilyHandyman.com, but other options are available as special sizes and types can be special ordered.  Some boards, for instance, can be rough on one face and smooth on the other.

Tongue and groove boards are known to shrink and expand as the humidity and temperatures lower and rise.  Because of this, unfinished boards installed during the summer months can look much different in the winter months if your area experiences drastic temperature swings.  As this wood dries out and shrinks, unfinished stripes will begin to show where the tongues withdraw from its grooves.  However, all of this can be avoided if you apply a finish before installation to avoid this look.

The DIY Network has a simple how-to guide on how to install the ceiling if you want to do the job yourself or are curious as to how the process works.

Comments (0)

Combigan Eye Drops Cost

Combigan, eye drops used to treat open-angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye, is only available via prescription only.

The reported Combigan eye drops prices

The costs of Combigan eye drops greatly depend on your health insurance plan, the pharmacy you choose and the quantity.  Prices, based on these factors can range anywhere from as little as 180 for a 5ml bottle to as much as $1,100 for a 30ml bottle.

Refer to our table below for the costs we sourced online via multiple big-box pharmacies.  These costs are estimated averages only for those who do not have any insurance coverage.

According to GoodRx.com, Medicare and private health insurance will cover this drug, with co-pays ranging anywhere from $18 to more than $185, depending on your policy.  As there are thousands of health insurance policies on the market, it’s best to talk with either your health insurance policy and/or local pharmacy to see what you’re responsible for.

Combigan overview

Combigan are brimonidine and timolol ophthalmic eye drops which are designed to treat pressure in the eyes, often caused by either glaucoma or hypertension, both of which cause high pressure, leading to pain and discomfort, which, if left ignored, can lead to harming your vision.  Only available as a prescription, these eyes drops will help alleviate your pain.

To use, you will wash your hands first and will want to avoid touching the dropper to avoid contamination.  You must also remove your contact lenses and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in.  Like any eye drops, you will tilt your head back, look up and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch for the liquid to drop into.

Depending on your circumstances, your doctor will be able to tell you how to use it and how often you should do so.  In most cases, adults will use it every 12 hours, twice a day.  Follow the directions closely on the label and always listen to your doctor’s advice.  Do not skip doses, do not take more than you should and if you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible unless it’s close to your next scheduled dosage.  In this case, do not double dose and continue the schedule as is.

Store the medicine in a cabinet away from children and pets away from direct light, mositure and excessive heat.  Never freeze and do not keep outdated medicine.

Combigan side effects

Side effects commonly reported include allergic reactions, eye bleeding, changes in blood sugar, cold hands/feet, confusion, difficulty breathing, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, infect eyes, irregular heartbeat, skin rashes, slow heart rate, a bitter taste in mouth, blurred vision immediately after using, dry mouth, itchy eyes, headaches and/or sensitivity to light.  For more common and rare side effects, refer to this WebMD.com guide.  Talk to your doctor right away if any of these side effects occur.

How to save on Combigan

The official website at Combigan.com offers a rebate up to $25 by providing the information requested online.  Only one rebate per customer and is only valid for commercial and cash-pay patients only.

GoodRx states that Combigan is a combination of two or more separate drugs and you may actually be better off receiving separate prescriptions as each drug could be available as a generic, but this isn’t the case when the active ingredients are not combined.

While most brand-name drugs have a generic equivalent, Combigan, at the time of this publishing, does not have a generic version to help you save money.

Check with your local state/federal government, non-profits and organizations to see if they can help you pay for this drug at a reduced cost.  In most cases, as long as you meet income requirements, you may be eligible for discounts.  Refer to the Partnership for Prescription Assistance for more information on ways to save.

Ask your doctor if they can prescribe a longer supply, such as a 90-day supply instead of a 30 day, to help you save over the long run.  As you can see in the table above, the larger the bottle, the more you can save.

While you should do so at your own risk, consider purchasing your prescription from a reputable foreign pharmacy online.  Canadian pharmacies, for example, can cost up to 80 percent less.  We recommend checking out PharmacyChecker.com to see which reputable pharmacies online can offer the best price.

Comments (0)

Raising Ceiling Height Cost

If you feel your standard, eight-foot ceilings are not tall enough or just want to change the overall feel of the room, then it could be a candidate for a vaulted ceiling, otherwise, known as “vaulting a ceiling.”

Depending on how steep your roof is, you may be able to raise your ceilings as high as 12 feet, which can add more volume and a lot more light.

“Living Room on Main Level” (CC BY 2.0) by LakeMartinVoice

The cost of raising a ceiling height

The cost of raising a ceiling, as long as your home is a candidate, will depend on the type of roof framing, the complexity of the job, the size of home/rooms that need the ceiling raises, the contractor you hire and your geographical location.  As you can see, with so many factors, the prices can vary greatly, but from the quotes we researched and received on our website, the estimates tend to be in the $25 to $60+ per square foot range, and this price would include everything from start to the finished product. Be sure to refer to our table below to see all of the costs you will be responsible for if considering the job.

As there are so many factors, we highly recommended you use the free quote comparison tool, HomeAdvisor.com.  With this tool, you can simply describe your project, and with this information, locally licensed contractors will contact you, for free, with a quote for their services.  This is a great way to receive multiple quotes without having to research them yourself.

According to one member on this BiggerPockets.com thread, he paid $7,000 to raise his ceiling and do away with his trusses.

A member on Angie’s List answered this very question and stated you should be prepared to see quotes in the $8,000 to $10,000 range for just raising and reframing the roof, and in many cases, it can easily be two times this amount if the entire wall has to be lifted.

At HouseTweaking.com, they showcased some great before- and after pictures when they vaulted their living room ceiling, and in the end, she talked about the costs of the entire project, stating it cost $5,600.  However, with this quote, it did not include the demoing, which they did on their own, the insulation and the drywall around the beams and affected walls.

Can I raise my ceiling? (and the additional costs to consider)

To know if you’re a candidate for a vaulted ceiling, there are a few things you can do as long as you’re comfortable climbing into your attic.  If so, you will want to look for the following:

What kind of framing inside your attic? First, pay attention to your roof framing to see if your attic is framed either with a rafter or truss.  Rafters, according to HouseLogic.com, will be your best choice as this setup offers more open space, but even if the attic uses trusses, it can be done, but it’s going to be more difficult and costlier.

Do you have a chimney?  In a lot of cases, if the chimney interferes with the room where you want the ceiling vaulted, then there’s a good chance the job cannot be complete without interfering with the chimney structure.

Electrical lines:  Inside your attic, you will also want to look on top of the joists to see if any wires are running along it.  If so, your ceilings can be moved, but moving this wiring can increase the amount of time needed to complete the job.

Ductwork:  Like the electrical lines, all sheet ducts will need to be rerouted, usually beneath the home when you raise your ceilings.

Plumbing:  Lastly, the plumbing your home uses can affect the cost and affect the job as well.  Plastic vent pipes, commonly found in most homes today, will be much easier to move when in comparison to copper or galvanized-steel supply lines.

Tips to know

Depending on the final outcome, a raised ceiling should increase your home’s value by about 20 to 30 percent, according to real estate agents who talked about this renovation online.

The entire process, for a typical living room, from start to finish, could take about 30 to 45 days to complete, depending on the factors mentioned above.  Complications, such as rerouting wires and plumbing can often increase the timeline.

If you thought about adding skylights in the past, now is the best time to do so as the contractor will have easy access to the roof during the repair.  The same can be said about those who want to remove a wall inside of a room to create more space.

Vaulted ceilings are notoriously known to be energy wasters as you are technically creating two rooms in one, requiring the need for more heat or air.

Consider a tray ceiling alternative if the prices above seem to be out of reach.  A tray ceiling looks like the traditional 8-foot ceiling, but only the center portion is raised, creating a feeling of a higher ceiling.

Comments (0)

Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost

Cool back in the day, popcorn ceilings, sometimes to referred to as a cottage cheese ceiling or even acoustic ceiling, were designed to help hide any imperfections in the ceiling with its well-known bumpy texture.

As time went on, though, as with any fashion trend, popcorn ceilings are now looked at as an eyesore, often making a room look quite outdated.

Since many homeowners want to remove this ceiling, either when moving into a new home or during a remodel, it will, of course, come at a price.

“Removing Popcorn” (CC BY 2.0) by fivedollarones

Popcorn ceiling removal cost per square foot

The cost to remove a popcorn ceiling will depend on a few factors, including the contractor you hire, the type of popcorn ceiling and your geographical location. On average, a straightforward popcorn ceiling removal, without any obstacles or asbestos removal, can cost $1.50 to $3 per square foot, but these costs can increase if asbestos was found inside the ceiling.  If asbestos needs to be removed, along with the ceiling, then be prepared to spend $5 to $7 per square foot and plan on spending more to either re-paint the ceiling or add another type of ceiling option to create a finished look.

If you want an exact quote for your job, we highly recommend using the free tool offered by HomeAdvisor.com to receive multiple free quotes from licensed and screened contractors in your area.  With this tool, all you need to do is explain your job and with this information, contractors will contact you with a no-obligation quote, allowing you to compare the quotes to make an informed decision.  It’s fast, free and no credit card is required.

Extra costs to think about

Disposal – Some contractors may charge a disposal fee, especially in the case of asbestos as this will take more work to ensure no debris is left behind.  To budget, disposal can cost another $100 to $400.

Furniture – If any furniture is in the way of the ceiling and has to be removed, especially heavier items, then be prepared to spend about $50 to $100 per room.

Asbestos Testing – As mentioned, a test is almost always be required and will be considered an additional expense.  Asbestos testing for popcorn ceilings, depending on the contractor you use and the size of the ceiling, can cost $400 to $800 on average.

Renovation – After the popcorn ceiling is removed, the estimates above will not include the paint or the new ceiling treatment — only the finished, sanded down ceiling.

Higher than average ceilings – Rooms with higher ceilings may increase the costs by 20 to 30 percent on average.

Removing the popcorn ceiling

In most cases, before a contractor even removes the popcorn ceiling, they may want to first test to ensure no asbestos is present.  As mentioned, it if is there, this will involve much more work to ensure the asbestos is gone for good.

During the process, the popcorn texture is scraped away from the ceiling using this type of scraper., but before doing so, the ceiling will be slightly misty to avoid creating a dusty environment.  At this time, the entire room will be covered with a drop cloth and the walls will be taped with plastic to collect all of the debris and the dust to make sure it’s disposed of properly.

Next, after the popcorn ceiling is scraped in its entirety, the contractor will then apply a layer of drywall mud over the ceiling and will sand it flat once dry.  After creating a smooth surface, the ceiling is then either painted or a ceiling type of your choice is installed.

Tips to know

In the past, asbestos was used in construction due to its fire-resistant properties; however, as time went on, countless studies noted the health concerns in relations to it such as mesothelioma cancer.  Even if you do not plan on removing your popcorn ceilings today, you may want to consider getting them tested, at a minimum, to confirm no asbestos is present.  Tests, depending on who you use, can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 on average, with a follow-up, in the case of a positive result, being another $200 to $300 to confirm the asbestos disappeared.

In 1978, the “Clean Air Act” banned the use of asbestos in all building-related products, but manufacturers were allowed to get rid of their inventory after this, meaning some products were sold well into the early 1980s.

Comments (0)

Lumigan Cost

Lumigan, a prescription-based drug used to treat open-angle glaucoma, high pressure in the eyes or to even promote upper eyelash growth, is available in both generic (Bimatoprost) and brand form.

How much does a bottle of Lumigan cost?

The costs of Lumigan depends on the type you’re prescribed (brand vs. generic), the pharmacy you use, the dosage strength and your health insurance.  On average, one 2.5ml of 0.03% can cost about $85 for the generic version and the branded version (Lumigan) can cost about $196 for the same dosage.  As there are varying dosages, refer to our costs in the table below.

NOTE:  These prices are just averages and were sourced via Costco and GoodRx.com.  Being an average, your results may vary depending on the pharmacy you choose.

GoodRX.com does note Medicare will not cover this drug, and the only way you can save is either by paying in full or using a discounted drug card to help bring the costs down.

Lumigan overview

The Lumigan (Bimatoprost) ophthalmic eye drops are designed to treat certain diseases of the eye such as ocular hypertension and/or open-angle glaucoma, which commonly occurs as your eyes grow older.  This medication, reducing the pressure in your eye, can help alleviate eye pain often caused by the diseases mentioned.  The drug can also help treat eyelash hypotrichosis, a condition where you cannot grow enough eyelashes, by making your eyelashes longer, darker and thicker.  The medicine is only available via a doctor’s prescription.

Always use the prescription medicine as directed by your doctor and be sure to read the medication guide that comes with your prescription.  If your doctor prescribed more than two eye drops, then it’s best to take them at least five to 10 minutes apart and waiting up to 30 minutes before putting your contacts back in.

Doses will be different for all, but for most, one drop in the affected eye once a day is most common.  For eyelash growth, the drops are applied directly to the upper eyelids instead of directly int the eye.  If you do miss a dose, apply it as soon as you can, but if it’s close to your next scheduled dose, then stick to that one.  Do not double down or take more than you should without your doctor’s permission.

Keep out of reach from children and pets and store the medicine at room temperature.

Lumigan side effects

Common side effects, as per CVS, can include allergic reactions, a change in vision, swollen/infected eyes, discomfort, a change in eye/eyelash/eyelid color, dry eyes, an increase in a flow of tears and/or sensitivity to light.  Any side effects, if they continue or are bothersome, should always be reported to your physician ASAP.

How to save on Lumigan

Bimatoprost, as seen in the table above, is the generic version of Lumigan and work in a similar way for a fraction of the cost.  Pharmacies will always dispense the generic version unless your doctor otherwise tells them to dispense the branded version on your prescription.

As mentioned in our notes above, consider looking for a drug discounted card to help bring down the costs.  On GoodRx.com, for example, you can use their card at popular pharmacies, such as Walgreens, CVS, Costco and Kroger, to save more than a hundred dollars, depending on the dosage needed.

Ask your doctor about cheaper alternatives as there are some medications on the market that can work in a similar way.  Xalatan, for instance, can cost less than $12 for a 30-day supply and is used to treat open-angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye as well.

The official website does have a $25 off coupon if you fill out the email address form located here.

Some verified pharmacies located in Canada and overseas can save you up to 80% when compared to U.S. pharmacies.  PharmacyChecker.com, for example, lists a handful of PharamacyChecker.com approved pharmacies that have this drug.

Comments (0)

Latanoprost Cost

Latanoprost ophthalmic solution, the generic version of Xalatan, is used to treat open-angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye.

How much does Latanoprost cost?

The costs of Latanoprost depends on your insurance coverage, the strength and the pharmacy you use.  From our research, the average eye dropper, regardless of the strength, will cost anywhere from $15 to $30 without any insurance.  At Walmart, for instance, the reported costs are said to be in the $16 to $40 range, depending on the factors mentioned prior.

According to the official prices at Costco, for example, a 3ml eye dropper can cost $19 without insurance, while a 9ml eye dropper will cost $33.  As compared to the branded Xalatan eye drops, the costs are close to 11-16 times more than that of the generic version.

Latanoprost, according to GoodRx.com, is part of Medicare and most private insurance companies, and according to your insurance policy, the co-pay averages range from $0 to $21.  Talk with your insurance company for more information in regards to how much you will be responsible for.

Latanoprost overview

Latanoprost, the generic version of Xalatan, is designed to treat certain kinds of glaucoma, but it can also be used to treat hypertension of the eye, working by improving the outflow of the fluid from the eye, eventually lowering the pressure.  The medicine is only available via prescription only.

Only use the medicine as directed by your doctor and closely follow the guide that comes with the medication.  Never use more or less and take doses as according to doctor’s instructions.  If your doctor ordered more than two eye drop prescriptions, then you will want to wait at least five to 10 minutes in between medicines, and always wait at least 15-20 minutes before reinserting your contact lenses.

Most patients take one drop per day, usually in the evening.  Never take by mouth and wash your hands before and after using to avoid infection.

As with any prescription, keep out of reach from children, pets and store away from the direct heat.  Before the bottle, store in the refrigerator, but when it has been opened, it can be stored at either room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to six weeks.

If you do miss a dosage, take as soon as you can, but if you’re close to your next dose, then take that one only.   Never double dose or take extra doses.

Latanoprost eye drops side effects

The most common side effects seen with the drugs, as per CVS, include allergic reactions, a change in vision, skin irritation, swollen/infected eyes, burning, changes in eye color, dry eyes, an increased flow of tears and/or sensitivity to the light.  Any side effects you feel uncomfortable and/or side effects that seem to worsen should be reported to your doctor immediately.  Most side effects, according to the reports, were less than 1%.

Comments (0)

Drop Ceiling Installation Cost

The drop ceiling, a ceiling with many names (suspended or drop down), are designed in a way to be “dropped” just below the ceiling to help hide wires, ductwork, and pipes, to name a few.

Created from panels, a drop ceiling will rest in a grid-like system that is suspended from the ceiling joists and is often found in a basement.

To determine the costs of a drop ceiling, it can be confusing as all panels will not be created equally.

“Covered popcorn ceiling – Marble Beige P” (CC BY 2.0) by Talissa Decor Ceilings

The cost to install a drop ceiling

The cost to install a drop ceiling will greatly depend on the contractor you hire, the type of panels you want to purchase, the size of these panels, the height of your ceiling and your geographical location.  As you can see, there are many factors, but for the most part, be prepared to spend anywhere from $4 to $7 per square foot if you intend on hiring a licensed and reputable contractor in your area.

As for those who just want to do the job on their own, the tiles on its own can cost about $1 to $2 per square foot, while the supplies, if you do not have the necessary tools, can cost less than a hundred dollars as all you will need is a ladder, utility knife, tape measure and chalk string, to name a few.   This FamilyHandyMan.com how-to guide goes into detail as to how the entire installation process works and which tools you will need to complete the job if you were to do it on your own.   To estimate your costs for just the materials, ArmstrongCeilings.com has an easy-to-use calculator that is able to help determine what you should budget for supplies.

Pros of a drop ceiling

A variety of looks: Today, ceiling tiles come in a variety of looks, and while drywall often offers a boring white look, a drop ceiling could be the option if you want to jazz up your ceiling look.  Whether it’s a coffered, wood or tiled look, there’s a good chance you can find it.

Soundproofing: Drop ceilings are a fantastic choice for those who are looking to soundproof a room as these tiles can help dampen noise coming from a movie room or studio, for instance.

Access:  The tiles, even when installed, can still be easily removed in order to access the pipes or wires behind it.  This can come in handy if you plan on fixing leaks, installing new wires in the future or just simply need access without the hassle of cutting your drywall open.

Cons of a drop ceiling

Value:  In terms of cosmetic value, a lot of people find them to be ugly, but this can point can either be a pro or con, depending on how you look at it.  Many real estate agents have noted that a drop ceiling, instead of a drywall ceiling, can actually lessen the value of your home if you were to finish your basement.  If you want the rest of your home to go with the flow, many experts do recommend drywalling your ceiling.

Risk of sagging:  Since these types of ceilings are almost always installed in a basement, you do risk the chance of the ceiling sagging in the future due to the moisture in your basement’s air.  As the tile absorbs this moisture, it can begin to weigh the tile down, ultimately creating that sagging look.  While some brands created a product to prevent this from happening, many tiels on the market do not.

Not fun to install:  Even if you feel you’re the master DIY guy/gal when it comes to installing something, installing a drop ceiling is actually harder than you think, most often due to the leveling it requires.  In the end, if your tiles are not level as it should be, then you should be prepared to look at an uneven ceiling.

Lose space:  You will lose headroom when it’s installed, often about six inches, and for this reason, it may not be ideal if you’re taller than average.

Tips to know

Ceiling tiles found at a local hardware store either come in a 2-by-2 foot or as a 2-by-4-foot size and are available in a variety of textures and styles.  Some have a simple square pattern, creating the illusion of an actual ceiling, making the grid the tiles sit in less obvious, while others can have a portrait matte-like look, creating a luxury feel.

In most cases, you usually do not need to pull a local permit to install new ceiling tiles; however, if you want to play it safe, talk with your local planning department to see if any rules apply.  If there are any, it may be related to the minimum floor-to-ceiling clearance needed.

Jason at ifinishedmybasement.com notes that a drywall ceiling, most of the time, can cost just as much as a drywall ceiling, if not more.  If you think this is your best option for your budget, you may want to consider other alternatives as well to see how the pricing compares.

When installing a drop ceiling, plan on losing about five to six inches of height when the job completes.

Comments (0)

Vimpat Cost

Lacosamide (Vimpat) is a prescription-based drug designed to help control seizures that were caused by certain types of epilepsy by acting on the central nervous system.  It can either be used on its own or combined with other medicines to become effective, but it will not be a cure for seizures.

As of 2018, there is no generic oft his drug available but one may become available in 2022.

How much does Vimpat cost?

The cost of Vimpat greatly depends on your insurance carrier, the quantity/dosage strength and the pharmacy you choose.  With a variety of strengths and quantities, we included the costs we found online in our table below, but to budget, be prepared to spend about $12 per capsule without insurance.

According to GoodRX.com, Medicare and private insurance carriers will cover this drug, but as there are thousands of policies, the costs of this prescription, even with insurance coverage, can still range anywhere from as little as $30 to more than $900 for your co-pay.  It’s best to talk with your insurance carrier to know exactly what you will be responsible for before going to the pharmacy.

On this Coping-With-Epilepsy.com forum thread, members discussed the costs they had paid for the drug, with one member saying he paid $96 for his first month of 100mg pills, while another said their monthly co-pay was $300 a month.

Vimpat overview

Always take this medicine as directed by your doctor and following the instructions which come with the medication.  The medicine can be taken either with or without food, and the dosage will depend on the strength of the medicine and each patient.

If you do miss a dosage, take it as soon as possible, but never take a double dose.  If it’s almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.

Store the medicine away from children and pets, away from any heat, moisture or direct sunlight.  Always avoid freezing.

Vimpat side effects

Vimpat side effects, as per WebMD, may include nausea, blurred vision, vomiting, tiredness, a loss of balance, difficulty walking and/or memory problems.  These side effects tend to be most common when you first start the medication, according to the website, and may lessen as your body starts to adjust to the drug; however, all bodies will react differently, and your results will vary.  Always talk with your doctor if these effects persist or worsen.

Rarer side effects, according to WebMD, can include feeling depression, becoming suicidal and/or other related mental/mood problems.  Allergic reactions, also rare, can occur, causing fevers, swollen lymph nodes, itching, swelling, rashes and/or troubled breathing in extreme cases.  This is not a full list of side effects.  Always talk to your doctor about full disclosure.

How to save on Vimpat

As mentioned in our “costs” subsection, talk with your health insurance carrier to know what you’re responsible for.

Consider using a pharmacy discount card website, such as GoodRx.com.  Here, you can find a local pharmacy for the drug, print out a coupon and take it to the said pharmacy for the rate displayed on the website.  These cards are free and anyone can use them.

The official manufacturer of the drug offers the Vimpat Support Program, an assistance program which can lower the costs to as little as $20 per month.  This program allows you to use the card up to 12 times, allowing you to save as much as 1,300 for the year.  For more information on ways to reduce your costs on this prescription drug, you can visit the official manufacturer website here for more information.

There are many alternatives which may work for your situation and cost you a lot less than this drug.  Neurontin, for example, can cost as little as $11 for a 30-day supply.  Talk with your doctor to see if any alternatives could work for your circumstances to help you save.

The patent, at this time, does not expire until March of 2022, and until then, a generic cannot be available until the patent expires.  Even though this is when the patent expires, it does not mean a generic will readily be available as this will all depend on FDA approval and if any manufacturers decide to make a generic version.

Comments (0)