Underground Oil Tank Removal Cost

One of the most common reasons an underground oil tank is removed is either due to corrosion or simply because it’s old.  As the tank begins to rust, it can degrade to the point where it may start to leak, contaminating the soil that surrounds it.  If this were to happen, then be prepared to whip out your credit card as the costs to remedy the issue at hand can cost thousands of dollars.

“PB170165” (CC BY 2.0) by Massachusetts Dept. of Environmental Protection

Underground oil tank removal costs

The costs to remove an underground oil tank will be dependent upon various factors, including the location of the tank, the size of the tank, permits required, the contractor you choose and your geographical location, to name a few.  In a moment, we will go more in depth in regards to how each factor can affect the costs and what you should be prepared to spend when hiring a professional to remove your underground oil tank.  As there are so many factors, the estimates we gathered online could vary anywhere from as little as $2,000 for a basic job to more than $4,000 if in a complex area, but for the most part, the basic cost, as long as the tank is not beneath the home, will be around $2,000.

As there are so many factors, it is hard to offer an exact estimate.  For that reason, we do recommend HomeAdvisor.com, a contractor-based website that simply connects you with a professional in your area. Here, you simply describe your job and multiple contractors will contact you with a free, no-obligation quote.

Oil-Tank.com, for example, states the average tank removal is relatively inexpensive, often costing about $1,900, but if you required a contamination cleanup, the costs could be in the $20,000 range.

According to one member on this City-data.com forum thread, he paid $250 to have the soil tested and another $900 to have it removed; however, it did claim they didn’t really remove it; instead, they dug down, exposed the top and filled it with an inert substance after the oil was pumped out.

Underground oil tank removal cost factors

The tank location:  An above ground tank is much easier, of course, but this guide isn’t about this type of tank, unfortunately.  Seeing an underground tank is, well, underground, it’s going to cost more, but where the tank is located can affect the cost.  For example, a tank beneath dirt and that’s it will cost much less than a tank located underneath a concrete driveway or in an area which requires heavy machinery and/or special machinery in order to access tight corners.

The size of the tank:  Simply put, the larger the tank is, the more the contractor will have to dig in order to remove the tank completely.  Smaller tanks, as you can imagine, will be much easier to remove, when in comparison to a larger tank, especially if it requires special transportation to take it away from your location.

Permits:  All geographical locations will vary in regards to which kind of permits you will need to pull for the job.  Usually, in most cases, you will need a permit to remove your underground tank, and the permits, depending on the local code, can be a few hundred dollars on average.  These permits need to be pulled to ensure you’re working with a registered and licensed contractor in your area.

Liquid Disposal:  All underground oil tanks will have some sort of fluid left over in it and will need to be disposed of appropriately in a safe way.  Since you cannot just dump the oil in your yard, special equipment will be required to safely and legally dispose of all leftover oil.

Lab Analysis:  In the case of a leak during the removal, you may need to have a laboratory analyze your ground (around $350) to make sure none of the surrounding soil/ground is contaminated.  This isn’t always needed, but it may be wise to budget for it in a worst-case scenario.  If in the case the oil tank did leak, then you may need to budget a low ten figures for appropriate cleanup.

Tips to know

In some cases, if no leaks are suspected, you may be able to consider an alternative route by digging down into it, chopping off the top and filling it with an inert material such as pea gravel or cement.  Again, this can only be considered only if the tank shows no signs of leaks.

Check your state to see if any grants are available to help offset the costs of removing the old oil tank and installing a newer one.  For example, a member on a Zillow.com thread online claimed, at the time, New Jersey was offering a $1,200 grant for removal and another $1,800 for the installation of a new tank.  Some companies will front the grant money so you do not have to wait for the savings, but your results will vary depending on the contractor you do hire.

After the removal, your insurance carrier may lower your premiums once you prove the tank is removed, which is often ton via a Letter of Closure.

Even in the event of a leak, most insurance companies will not cover the repair as there is a “pollution exclusion” clause in most contracts, freeing the company from this responsibility.

Know your state laws when it comes to an oil tank removal as all states will vary.  For example, in Michigan, they require all underground oil tanks must be properly closed and removed withint one year of its last use unless removing it could do damage to the structure.  In New York, all underground tanks must be emptied, cleaned and emptied of all vapors, with written proof the tank was abandoned.

A decayed shift, overfilled tank, lack of maintenance, leaky fittings, severed lines and/or negligent oil delivery are all common reasons an underground oil tank can leak.

How can I tell if the tank is leaking?

There are many signs which may point to an underground oil tank that could be leaking.  Signs to look out for include a higher-than-average fuel consumption, even when not in use, dead vegetation around the tank, strong oil odors near the area, a strange well water taste/odor, darker soil than the surrounding yard near the tank, a stained area around the fill pipe and/or water is present in the fuel lines.  If you do notice any of these signs, you will want to contact a contractor right away before the contamination becomes worse, costing you even more money.

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Range Hood Installation Cost

The kitchen range hood is responsible for capturing any food odor and/or grease that may fly around while prepping a meal.

If you’re in the market for either a new range hood install or are thinking about replacing it, let’s take a look at what it is going to cost to install one.

“White Modern Kitchen” (CC BY 2.0) by Paintzen

The average range hood vent installation costs

The cost to install a new range hood will depend on a few factors, including the contractor you hire, how far the vent needs to run, the area it is running through (how complex is the area?), your geographical location and the overall complexity of the setup.  On average, a brand new vent hood, not replacing an older one, a direct connection, without any obstacles, can cost anywhere from $150 to $250 in labor, whereas a more complex install, which involves going through a back wall, into the upper cabinets and/or sideways through an outside wall, for example, could increase the costs by as much as $350 to $500.  In the end, for just the labor, be prepared to spend about $200 to $500.  This price will not include the necessary range hood supplies.

As all jobs are so unique, we recommend using the free tool, HomeAdvisor.com.  Here, you can simply explain your job and with this information, contractors will contact you with free, no-obligation quotes in your area.

According to Proline Range Hoods, they note this is a question that is often asked, and according to their guide, they recommend that homeowners plan on budgeting anywhere from $200 to $500 depending on the overall complexity and the entire install.  Like we mentioned, this estimate will only apply to the labor only, not the materials.  On average, included in the estimate, will often be the $85 per hour, plus the trip fee, and another $50 to $75 to install the new vent or range hood.

HomeAdvisor.com recommends budgeting $166 to $284, depending on the complexity of the job.

Breaking down the costs

Tips to know

If you plan on venting through an outside wall, contractors will always want to make sure this vent isn’t installed beneath an eave opening that runs into the attic due to the cooking moisture/oils making it way into the attic, which may cause mold and/or an infestation problem as they do love cooking oil deposits.

If the vent is running through the attic, then make sure the vent, when installed by the contractor, actually goes through the roof and doesn’t stop in the attic space.  This tip, provided by LCD on Angie’s List, was recommended due to the fact that if the vent stopped in the vent, it could once again, lead to moisture and/or pest problems.

For those who live in a colder climate, always make sure the ductwork through the attic is insulated to prevent the moisture from condensing in the ductwork.  If this happens, then the moisture can make it way back to the fan inside the kitchen and ultimately on the stove.

Once installed, BobVila.com highly recommends sticking to a strict maintenance schedule.  This means washing the exhaust fan filter at least once a month, especially if you cook a lot, and using a special degrease cleaner to avoid the buildup of grease on the underside of the hood.  Failing to do so can often clog the holes inside of the filter, ultimately minimizing the efficiency of your vents.

The standard size of a range hood is 30 inches and is designed to match the standard size of most ranges; however, wider wall-mounted and suspended island-based models are available for custom kitchen designs.  Before purchasing a range hood, always make sure you make the appropriate measurements before buying.

Ductless vs. ducted model

A ductless model will not vent to the outside of your home; instead, this range will draw the air in and circulate it through its charcoal filter, which is a filter designed to trap grease and odors.  A ducted range hood, on the other hand, does the opposite as this type of hood will draw in the air and disperse it outside via a wall vent or up your walls through the roof.   Ducted models, on average, can cost about three to five times more than a ductless model on average.

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Promethean Board Cost

The Promethean Board, a specific brand, is an interactive whiteboard which allows you to project an image from your computer as well as interact with it by using specialized pens.

“SIGMS Playground” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Andrea Christman

How much does a Promethean board cost?

The cost of a Promethean Board will greatly depend on the board type you want to purchase as the company does manufacture a few models, which we will discuss in the table below.  Also, the condition of the board (new vs. used) and the reseller you purchase from can all affect the price as well.

Researching online, we were able to find quite a few authorized retailers that did list their prices online.  Taking the average, we compiled a simple table, along with the basic description and price range we found.  Your results will vary based on the factors we mentioned earlier so it’s best to use this as an estimate only.

NOTE:  You can save up to 60% if you were to buy a secondhand unit on eBay and occasionally, some sellers list on Amazon.com as well.

The extra costs to budget for

Aside from the board prices mentioned above, countless optional accessories are available for the board, which we included the price estimates in our table below:

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Oxcarbazepine Cost

Oxcarbazepine, the generic version of Trileptal, is used to treat people with epilepsy, helping prevent partial seizures.

It is available as an extended-release tablet, tablet and in suspension form.

How much does Oxcarbazepine cost?

The cost of Oxcarbazepine, as with most prescriptions, will depend on the pharmacy you use, your health insurance provider and the dosage/quantity.  With a variety of strengths (150mg, 300mg, and 600mg) and quantities available, the costs will vary, but the average “per capsule” cost will be around $0.14 per capsule.

To break the costs down, we posted the averages we found online in the table below:

According to GoodRX.com, Medicare will cover the procedure, and depending on which plan you have, the average co-pay reported ranged anywhere from $3 to more than $72, again, based on the factors mentioned prior.  As with private insurance companies, like Medicare, the costs will greatly depend on your insurance plan as all the prices will vary.

Oxcarbazepine overview

Oxcarbazepine, usually used alone or together with other medications to help treat epilepsy, works with the brain to help control and prevent partial seizures.  While it will not cure epilepsy, it will control it as long as you take the medicine.

Take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor and read the medication guide it comes with closely.  The regular tablet can be taken with or without food, while the extended-release tablet, if prescribed, must be taken on an empty stomach, at least one to two hours after a meal.  Do not crush, break or chew on the tablets while taking.

Dosages will vary from patient to patient, depending on the condition, other medication and the age/weight of the patient.  If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can, but if you’re close to your next dosage, take that dose only and never take double or extra doses as prescribed.

The medicine should be stored at room temperature, away from any heat, moisture and/or direct light.  Always keep away from pets and children, and any outdated medicine should be dispersed of properly as needed.  Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have questions in regards to disposing of it properly.

Oxcarbazepine side effects

All side effects, as always, should be reported to your doctor.  Common side effects may include the following:

• Allergic reactions, including rashes, itching and/or hives
• Appetite loss
• Confusion
• Constipation
• Difficulty passing urine
• Fever
• Headaches
• Infection
• Nausea
• Feeling nervous/anxious
• Balance, speaking and/or walking problems
• Swelling
• Tremors
• Unusual bleeding and/or bruises

To view more, you can visit this Mayo Clinic side effects page.

How to save on Oxcarbazepine

In some cases, you may be better off using a coupon instead of your private insurance to save.  To see the exact costs in your area, we highly recommend GoodRX.com to see if you can save with their coupons.  To save, you simply check the pharmacy you want to use, print the coupon and bring it to the local pharmacy.

Ask your doctor if he or she can write a prescription for a longer supply.  As you can see from the averages in our table above, the more capsules you purchase at once, the more you’re going to save.

All pharmacies will have varying prices, so we highly recommend you either call the pharmacy directly or even see if they have the prices posted online.  Costco, for example, posts its prices online, showing you what you will pay without any insurance.

While the prices for Oxcarbazepine are inexpensive, to begin with, there are alternatives, which have the same effect, for a lower cost.  Ask your doctor if you’re a candidate for an alternative drug to help you save more money.

Check with your insurance provider to see if they work with a pharmacy as some do work with mail order or specialty pharmacies to help maximize your savings.

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Microdermabrasion Cost

A microdermabrasion is a non-chemical, non-invasive skin exfoliation treatment which typically uses either crystals or diamond microparticles, according to Dr. Anna Wooten on Realself.com.  It’ also encourages the production of higher levels of collagen and elastin, which further improves your skin’s appearance.

This procedure is designed to help remove the outer layer of dead skin cells to reveal the healthier skin beneath, and in most cases, it will take just one session to see desirable results.

Often performed by a qualified medical aesthetician, patients often choose this cosmetic procedure to help with clogged pores, skin impurities, fine lines, wrinkles and/or other skin irregularities.

“Beautiful, plum and pink lips” (CC BY 2.0) by CushySpa

How much does microdermabrasion cost?

The cost of one microdermabrasion procedure will depend on the professional you use, the area being treated, the method/materials they use and your geographical location.  In most cases, you should be prepared to spend anywhere from $75 to $175 per session.  As there are a lot of materials that can be used to perform the procedure, this can greatly affect the price as some may use an ultrasound while other professionals may use vitamins and/or minerals on the skin for optimal results.  Since many aestheticians/professionals have their own method, be sure to talk with them ahead of time to know what their procedure is composed of.

In some cases, many professionals will ask that you come back for multiple packages to see desirable results since one session often is not enough to see desirable results.  Depending on your circumstances, they may recommend a few treatments about four to five weeks apart.  If this were the case, then you may need to commit to multiple sessions.  Most professionals, however, may have packaged deals which can save you up to 20% if you paid the entire bill up front.

According to Dr. Greogry Turowski, the costs can depend on your skin conditions as in some cases, a light lactic, used in conjunction with a microdermabrasion procedure, can enhance the results.  In the end, he recommends budgeting $100 to $150, with only some patients qualifying for the procedure.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes the average cost is $138, according to 2016 statistics.

MedicineNet.com claims the average treatment can range anywhere from $100 to $200.

Factors that affect the price

Where you live – As with most cosmetic procedures, where you live can greatly affect the price.  If you live in a major metropolitan area, then the costs could be much more due to the increase in overhead, but this could be the opposite if there’s a lot of competition in the area.

The area – While the face is the most common area treated, other areas can be treated as well, including the necks, back, arms and chest.  As you can imagine, since each of these areas is larger on the surface when compared to the face, your costs could be more due to the work involved.

Expertise – Who you hire, just like the geographical region, will affect any cosmetic procedure as well.  An aesthetician and nurse may charge more due to their training and certifications, whereas a higher-end medical spa could charge even more due to, once again, the overhead costs involved.  In the end, not only with the expertise of the individual affect the price, the type of facility, just like choosing a hotel, can affect the price as well.

The number of procedures – In a lot of cases, you may need more than one procedure to see results, and while the cost “per session” can be less if you were to commit to, say, four or five procedures in a package, this can affect the costs depending on the results you’re envisioning in the end.

Combined with other procedures?  As mentioned, a microdermabrasion can be combined with other procedures to produce optimal results.  If it’s utilized with, say, a dermaplaning, chemical peel or another related procedure, then there could be a price increase.

The procedure

There are two kinds of microdermabrasion procedures:  one method uses a handheld device which streams tiny crystals, while another method uses a diamond-tip wand that is designed to be moved across the skin to exfoliate.

During the treatment, a stream of tiny aluminum oxide crystals, directed through a handpiece, is applied to the skin.  These crystals exfoliate the skin, and the mild suction that’s created by the device will help remove any skin debris and crystals.  This, in turn, can help produce thicker skin layers, encouraging the growth of new skin lawyers to create more health, vibrant skin.  After the procedure is done, the new layer, immediately exposed, can be more sensitive to the touch and will need to be protected from the sun.

In most cases, as we already mentioned, you probably will need about three to six treatments, about four weeks apart, to see full benefits.

The entire procedure is entirely painless and will take less than 30 minutes.  While it isn’t painless, per se, some patients have noted it can cause a “warming” sensation as the device removes the older, damaged layers of skin.  Your doctor will recommend applying a lotion, based on your skin type, to keep the new layer hydrated to prevent any oncoming infections.

Being a quick procedure, your skin may be pink after the procedure is complete, but it usually subsides within a few hours.  As soon as the procedure is done, you can resume regular activities with no downtime at all.

Risks of a microdermabrasion

It’s often deemed as the “lunch hour” procedure, simply meaning you can come in during your lunch hour and have the entire procedure done in less than 30 minutes.  Even though it’s known for being a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure, it can still come with risks, as with any procedure, but for the most part, the risks and side effects are very minimal.  Some can experience slight skin irritation, while others can experience an infection in the case the applicator was not properly sanitized.

Other possible side effects, according to MedicineNet.com, can include skin tightness, skin sensitivity, minor bruising, skin abrasions, bleeding, and cold sore activation, to name a few.

Tips to know

This procedure is not recommended for those who suffer from rosacea skin or couperose skin.  Instead, a light peel is recommended.  Ideal candidates, as per DocShop.com, includes healthy patients with fine facial lines, age spots, uneven pigmentation, clogged pores, minor scars and/or skin texture problems.

Be careful as to who you choose since this procedure should always be performed by a qualified medical aesthetician.  While professionals can claim no harm can be done, you can suffer damage, including burns, altered pigmentation and/or scars if you fail to hire the right professional.  With that being said, always do your homework, looking at reviews, licensure and reputation online before signing up for a procedure.

Aside from researching your professional, also ask about the technique they use as you will want to make sure it’s as sterile as possible to avoid any risk of infection.

Because this is considered a milder, non-invasive procedure, patients should not be prepared to see results with sagging skin, folds or deep facial creases.  Instead, doctors will recommend other procedures such as a facelift or skin tightening procedure.

SkinTighteningSage.com has 15 microdermabrasion before and after pictures to show you what the procedure could look like.  Remember, your results will vary.

How to save money on a microdermabrasion

Always check Groupon.com for a reputable clinic to save as much as 80%.  Before choosing, however, always make sure you’re dealing with a reputable clinic.

In most cases, you will need more than one session, and if you purchase multiple sessions up front, in full, you should be able to save at least 10-20% off.  Be sure to ask the clinic ahead of time to see if any packaged deals are available.

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Brake Master Cylinder Replacement Cost

The brake master cylinder, a rounded, black object mounted beneath the vehicle hood, in front of the brake pedal, is a part designed to develop braking force and controls the action of each brake.

Working with your vehicle’s entire braking system, if the master cylinder seals start to wear and/or the part is simply failing as time goes on, then you’re going to want to get the problem resolved ASAP as this could lead to serious or even deadly consequences on the road since your brakes will not be working as they should.

In the end, picture the part as being responsible for making sure there’s enough braking fluid stored inside of this part, always making sure enough fluid is released whenever you push on the brake pedal.

“New Master Cylinder” (CC BY 2.0) by Ryan Frost

The reported master cylinder replacement costs

The costs to replace the brake master cylinder all depends on the vehicle you’re driving and the mechanic/dealer you use.  From our research online, the costs to hire a mechanic, including parts, can range anywhere from $250 to $625, with most domestics costing less than $350, while the luxury brands, such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, often being the $400 to $600~ range.

For just the parts, prices range anywhere from $45 to $250, again, depending on the vehicle make/model.  Seeing the job takes about two hours for the average mechanic, it’s safe to add about another $200~ to the part costs to receive a final total if hiring a professional.

With so many quotes mentioned online, we compiled the top makes and models and included our findings in the table below:

According to the average quotes received by vehicle owners on YourMechanic.com, the average dealer costs ranged from $186 to $423, while the “YourMechanic” price was anywhere from $149 to $371.

Extra costs to consider

If other parts of the braking system, such as the cylinders, calipers and/or hoses are either deemed in poor condition or are contaminated, then these parts will need to be replaced as well during the repair.

How does this part work?

The brake master cylinder is found on all modern-day vehicles and is located near the brake booster.

As you apply the brake, the master cylinder will force brake fluid to the calipers, forcing the calipers to squeeze the brakes pads into the brake rotor.  As this pressure is being created by two small-like plungers located inside of the master cylinder, it will compress the brake fluid as you push the brake pedal forward.

The replacement process

Before the part is even deemed faulty, your mechanic will first want to inspect and test the system, especially to spot any leaks.  If any leaks are present in the brake cylinder, then this almost always means the part will need to be replaced in its entirety.  Most parts, as mentioned in our introduction, will be found beneath the hood of your vehicle.

Once deemed faulty, then the brake master cylinder will be removed by disconnecting it with a socket wrench to remove it from its connectors.   While changing the brake cylinder, the fluid will also be flushed and changed out as this process can often contaminate the current brake fluid.

Next, the entire braking system is cleaned with air and before the new brake fluid is used, all parts, surrounding the system, will be cleaned.

The new brake fluid will be injected into the lines and the new part will be installed in reverse order.

Lastly, the mechanic will test it out on the road to make sure the part works as it should.

Symptoms of a faulty master cylinder

In simple terms, most drivers report the brakes as having a “spongy” feel whenever you apply the brakes.  If your brakes feel as if they are not working as they should, then the master cylinder could be the culprit.  Oftentimes, this spongy feeling is caused when air has been introduced into the actual master cylinder and/or the brake lines are leaking fluid.

Aside from feeling spongy, the brakes may quickly sink to the floor when pressure is applied, and if you’re noticing this symptom, then this could point to the plungers inside the master cylinder, as mentioned above, not being able to produce enough pressure for the car to come to a complete stop.

If your brake warning light is on, this could point to a faulty master cylinder, depending on the OBD code.

Any brake fluid leaks, a clear fluid on the ground or beneath the brake pedal, can mean a bad master cylinder.

Do note, if you ever feel your brakes are not working as they should, then you should get the car inspected immediately.  As mentioned, if not enough pressure is applied when coming to a stop, you may find the car will not brake as it should, ultimately causing a situation where you may not be able to come to a stop as expected.

Tips to know

The brake master cylinder tends to be a common repair among most makes and models, but the majority of cars, as reported by RepairPal.com, will not need the repair before 125,000 miles.  As there are few moving parts here, failure can be prevented as long as you stick to a strict maintenance schedule as recommended by your car manufacturer.  As long as you take in your car, a good mechanic can always spot the problem before it gets out of control as they will check the amount of brake fluid inside your system every time they change the oil.

If the seals are worn out and you avoid the problem, not only are you putting yourself and other passengers at risk, this fluid can also leak into the brake booster, destroying this part as well, costing you even more money.

How to check your master cylinder for problems

At home, you can check your brake system’s master cylinder, and it’s not that hard to do.  To do so, open the reservoir on the top of your master cylinder.  If you do not know where it’s located, this is what it should look like.  If you have a part with a plastic lid, then you can simply unscrew it, but if it’s made of metal, you will need a screwdriver to pry the lid off. When doing so, make sure you do not get any dirt or debris into the reservoir as this can contaminate the braking system. Once the lid is off, take a look inside of the master cylinder to see the level of your brake fluid.  If it’s at the “full” line or close to it, then there’s a good chance the part is the problem. Close the lid as fast as possible since oxygen and/or any water vapors can contaminate the fluid as well.  After you check the brake levels, then you will also want to look beneath the master cylinder for any stains, wetness and/or anything that may point to a sign of leaking.

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Lamotrigine Cost

Lamotrigine is a prescription-based drug designed to control seizures in both children and adults with epilepsy and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

Available in both generic and brand-name versions, Lamotrigine is the generic version of Lamictal, which was approved by the FDA in 1974.

How much does Lamotrigine cost?

The cost of Lamotrigine will depend on your health insurance, the pharmacy you get your prescription filled at and the dosage/quantity.  Seeing there are varying strengths and quantities, the average price per tablet is about $0.38 per tablet.

According to this Walgreens Prescription Club price sheet, the 5mg and 25mg chewable tablet is considered to be a tier 3 drug, meaning it will cost a flat $15 for a 30-day supply or $30 for a 90-day supply.

Medicare, according to GoodRx.com, will cover this drug, with users reporting paying a co-pay ranging anywhere from $0 to $18 for about 30 tablets.  The same price range can be estimated for those who hold private insurance plans as well.  To know for certain what you will be responsible for in regards to your insurance, most pharmacies should be able to tell you over the phone as long as you have your insurance information readily available.

Drug info

Lamotrigine, part of the drug class of anti-epileptics, is designed to prevent seizures and stabilize your moods.  It’s useful for not only seizure disorders but also for those who suffer from bipolar disorders with depression-like symptoms.

The most common side effects, when taken for epilepsy, as per GoodRx.com, includes feeling dizzy, headaches, diplopia, nausea, blurred vision, rhinitis, pharyngitis or rash.  Other less noted side effects do exist, so we recommend you do check out the full list and talk to your doctor for more information.  Serious side effects include suicidal thoughts or behavior, a serious skin rash, allergic reactions, blood disorders, meningitis or an increase in seizures if stopping the medication immediately.

Tips from pharmacists

Always follow the directions as prescribed by your doctor and follow the dosage schedule closely.

Take with food in order to avoid an upset stomach.

Report any side effects to your doctor, especially if it’s a rash, fever, blurred vision and/or a persisitent headache.

It’s known to make hormonal birth control less effective.

Expect to wait at least four+ weeks to start seeing full effects on your mood.

How to save on Lamotrigine

If you do not have a health insurance policy, consider looking for prescription coupons online.  Websites, such as GoodRx (the website we mentioned earlier) and Drugs.com, all offer coupons you can print from the website and take directly to the pharmacy.  It’s free to do and can potentially save you more than your private insurance.  Be sure to compare the prices before proceeding with your prescription.

While the prices are pretty similar among most pharmacies, the prices will not always be the same.  Talk with at least three to five pharmacies over the phone to see which one offers the best value.

The more tablets you purchase at once, the more the “per tablet” average drops.  If you know you will need this medication for more than 90 days, ask your doctor for a longer prescription.

Ask your doctor if you’re able to split your dosage to receive 50% more.  Pill splitters only cost a few dollars and can save you some money if your doctor allows you to do so.

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How Much Does Keppra Cost?

Levetiracetam, the generic version of Keppra, is a prescription-based drug used with other medication to help treat certain seizures for adults and children who are at least one month old.

The cost of Keppra

In this guide, we will focus on the prices of Levetiracetam, the generic versions of Keppra.  99% of the time, your physician will write a prescription for this type of drug as it works in the same exact way, but the biggest difference, as with all generics, will be the price.

The costs of Levetiracetam will depend on the pharmacy you choose, your health insurance plan, the dosage and quantity being filled.  From our research, without insurance, the costs will average about $0.90 per tablet.  Refer to our table below to see the cost average at most pharmacies across the United States:

NOTE:  These are the prices for the Keppra generic, Levetiracetam, and the prices noted above are averages only.  These prices can vary depending on the pharmacy you go to.  If you wanted the Keppra brand, the costs were about 28X the averages noted above.

According to GoodRX.com, Medicare does cover the generic, Levetiracetam, but they will not cover the Keppra brand.  If using Medicare of any private insurance for that matter, the average reported co-pay ranged from $0 to $59, depending on the type of insurance plan you had.

Healthline.com notes (60) 500-mg tablets for the generic version, Levetiracetam, will cost about $44 to $80, while the brand-name, for the same amount, can cost closer to $450.

Keppra overview

Keppra, an antiepileptic drug, is designed to allow you to control certain types of seizures during the treatment of epilepsy.  While this medicine is unable to cure epilepsy, it will only help control it as you use it.  This medicine, as noted in our intro, is only available by prescription only and needs to be taken as directed by your doctor only to help your condition as much as possible.  Aside from your doctor’s instructions, be sure to read the instructions which come with the prescription to know how to store it, dispose of it and the time you should take your dosage.

Levetiracetam can be taken either on a full or empty stomach, but again, follow your doctor’s orders as he or she may recommend a certain time when you should take it.  Doctors often recommend taking the capsules at the same time every day, usually once every 12 or 24 hours.

It should not be crushed, chewed or broken in half and must be swallowed whole.  For children who are unable to swallow the pill, there is a liquid form.

Keppra side effects

Many possible side effects may arise, which often require medical attention, with the most common including the following:

• allergic reactions such as a skin rash, itching and/or hives
• breathing problems
• darker urine
• flu-like symptoms
• problems with balancing, walking and/or talking
• mood swings
• yellowing of the skin and/or eyes
• If you experience any of these side effects, talk to your doctor immediately.
• Rarer side effects that often do not require medical attention include the following:
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headaches
• loss of appetite

Source:  Drugs.com

How to save on Keppra

The costs of the generic, Levetiracetam, as you can tell from the table below, will be 28 times cheaper than the Keppra brand and it will work in the same exact way.

Even if using the generic, look for coupons online to see if you can save even more at your local pharmacy.  In some cases, you may be able to save more when compared to your insurance carrier.

There are some alternatives that could be cheaper than this brand.  GoodRX.com noted Neurontin and Lamictal being alternatives which cost less than Keppra.

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How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Guitar?

Whether you just sold your guitar on eBay and need to ship it to a buyer or back to a factory for warranty work, the shipping, of course, will come at a price.

“guitar” (CC BY 2.0) by Mark Bonica

How much does it cost to ship a guitar?

The cost to ship a guitar will depend on how it’s packed, which shipping provider you choose, the shipping method and just like sending mail, where it’s being shipped from and to.  On average, if you’re going to ship a guitar in a hard guitar case, then most of the estimates we received were anywhere from $40 to $115 within the United States, but if you were to use something known as a gig bag, then this could drop the costs to as little as $35 to $75 due to the gig bag weighing much less than a guitar case — often by as much as 12 pounds.  This estimate should include insurance, often up to $2,500, a tracking number and signature upon delivery.

A post on Menga.net talked about the costs to ship a guitar if you were to sell your guitar on eBay, for example.  According to their estimates, they recommended the UPS Store for a few reasons.  For starters, they will take care of the packaging and boxing, saving you money on materials.  Secondly, they will take care of any forms, and lastly, as a third reason, from start to finish, you can track the shipment the entire time.  From their estimates, they said a guitar in a case will cost about $100 to $150, but a gig bag could cost $75 to $90.

According to a few members on this TheGearPage.net forum thread, one member said he paid $50 in a hardshell case via UPS with signature confirmation and $1,000 in insurance, while another said he paid $85 for FedEx Home Delivery services.  Another member paid $106 to ship a guitar from New Jersey to California with full $2,500 insurance.

On another forum thread, this time at AcousticGuitarForum.com, one member said he shipped countless guitars across the United States and always seemed to pay about $50 to $60.  A few other members replied, with one member saying he paid close to $100 when UPS, whereas another said he paid $32 to $47.

The extra costs to think about

If you use UPS or FedEx and need them to help you pack the item, then be prepared to spend for shipping supplies on top of the shipping fee.  The costs, from what we researched online, could be close to $100 if you needed the box and the additional packing supplies such as packing peanuts, etc.  On this eBay.com forum thread, for instance, one member asked if $200 was too steep to ship a guitar, with $100 going toward shipping and another $100 going toward the supplies.  According to the responses, members did note the UPS store will charge higher-than-average prices and you were better off going to an office supply store and packing the guitar yourself.  If you purchase one online, a highly rated guitar shipping box can cost about $35~

Adding insurance to cover the value of the guitar in case of theft or loss of shipment can be an additional cost.  FedEx, for instance, charges $0.90 for every $100, while UPS will charge a similar price.  Both companies have different rules in regards to insurance, so it’s best to talk with the company directly in regards to your shipment.

How to save on guitar shipping

Always compare prices with the big three:  FedEx, UPS and the USPS.  All three of these companies allow you to play around with their online calculator to see what it will cost you.  As long as you have the weight, dimensions and the final destination address, you will be able to determine your final numbers.  As with all shipping methods, the slowest and fewer bells and whistles you need, the cheaper it’s going to be.  Of course, an overnight delivery will cost much more than a 3-day delivery.

As mentioned, always consider a gig bag instead of a hard case during transit.  Dropping the shipment weight by more than 10 pounds could save you more than $30.  With that mind, even if you have to invest in a gig bag, it could still save you a few extra dollars, even after investing in one.

If you ship frequent enough with UPS or FedEx, they often offer discounts to frequent customers, helping you save as much as 15%+

If you want to purchase your own shipping supplies, you may be able to find a box in good condition they are throwing out at a local guitar retailer.  Even if they don’t, they may have some for sale for a cheaper price.

How to ship a guitar

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Heart Shaped Nipple Surgery Cost

A new trend in cosmetic surgery, the heart-shaped nipple can be achieved by either tattooing or grafting the nipple.

Almost all plastic surgeons condemn this practice due to high risk of infection, so if you’re thinking about getting it done, you may find it hard to find a reputable professional surgeon and will have to look into hiring a tattoo artist.

The average heart-shaped nipple surgery costs

As mentioned, a heart-shaped nipple procedure will almost always have to be performed via a tattoo or permanent makeup professional, and in the end, the costs will depend on your geographical location and the tattoo artist you hire if you were to use.  While you can have a cosmetic surgeon do the work, you will often find yourself traveling to another country, aside from the United States to have it done.

With that in mind, the average costs, from what we researched, could range anywhere from $350 to $550 if you had a tattoo artist do the work to as much as $1,350 to $2,100 if you had your nipples grafted by a licensed cosmetic surgeon.  In the end, the costs will greatly depend on the type of professional you chose, where you had the work done and the amount of the work that needed to be done.

Confidentials.com claims you should be prepared to $500 to $1,000 for the procedure.

The heart-shaped nipple surgery procedure

Commonly performed via a tattoo artist, there are two reasons for it.  For starters, a cosmetic surgeon will never consider it because of a myriad of reasons, including undesired results, the risk of infection and the scarring process.  Secondly, most cosmetic surgeons, aside from heart-shaped nipple surgery, will almost always never perform any sort of modification surgery, leaving you only one option — the tattoo artist.

1. The tattoo/permanent makeup process

The entire process is just like getting a regular tattoo, but be forewarned that even if you had a tattoo in the past, this area, according to tattoo artists, can be the most sensitive area on the body.  During the process, your artist will first work with you by drawing and adjusting your nipple shape by coloring, re-sizing and re-shaping your areola with a marker.  When confirmed, the artist simply tattoos the area with the specifications you confirmed.  In most cases, if you closely look at pictures online, the artist will often lighten some of the nipples to create the heart shape.

If you do choose this route, the treatment often only lasts a limited amount of time, meaning you may find yourself coming in for touchups every 12 to 24 months.  As the skin stretches and the nipples naturally move downward over time, the shape can lose its luster and will need to be re-drawn to create the image once again.

2.  The nipple grafting process

Yes, you can often find surgeons who will modify your body, but as Zwivel.com points out, you will often find yourself going to a third-world country to have the surgery performed.  During a nipple grafting procedure, the doctor will first remove the outer layer of your nipple, followed by covering it with a graft from another part of the body in order to design the heart shape.  In this case, it can compromise your ability to breastfeed and/or can reduce your nipple sensitivity.  Third-world countries, such as China and India, often modify body parts due to religious traditions or even simply due to the fact you have money to fork over.

Facts to know

Robert Cohen, MD on Realself.com highly recommends re-considering the procedure as almost all reputable board certified plastic surgeons will not do this because they deem it as being unethical and very unsafe.  Even if you were to find someone who would want to do it, he recommends you should always put your safety and best interests first since the procedure will not turn out the way you think it will.

Unlike a heart you cut out, even if you were to alter your areolas to look like a heart, the scar, over time after the procedure was completed, could contract and eventually distort the image, creating a long-term result that may look much worse than your natural state.

Cosmetic surgeons can alter your nipples cosmetically; however, they will only do so in certain situations such as after breast reconstruction, to create a more natural look or during a transgender transformation.   A surgeon will only consider this surgery if your goal is to create a natural look.

To keep this website family friendly, you can see results on Instagram by searching the hashtag “#heartshapednipples“

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