Dear Allergy and Asthma Sufferers,

This newsletter marks a milestone in my allergic life. This is the first time I have written our newsletter without being on Allegra D 12 hour antihistamine/ decongestant. Without informing me, my insurance company ceased partially covering my monthly prescription for the drug. I learned of this change when I went to refill the prescription two weeks ago and was informed by the pharmacist that my prescription was no longer covered. Thoroughly confused, I called my insurance company. I learned, after the fact, that because Zyrtec D had gone over the counter, Allegra D was no longer covered by my insurance. So instead of paying $60 per month and using the Allegra D rebate to get the total down to $36, I will now have to pay $141.62 per month.

I decided that I am not going to do that. I asked the pharmacist to suggest what I should do and she suggested trying Zyrtec D. So I went to the isle to pick it out, and it wasn't there; only a virtual paper slip showing the bottle. Because the decongestant version contains a chemical that can be used to make methamphetamines, it is a controlled substance. I take the slip from the isle to the counter and asked to buy a one month supply and found that I can only buy limited quantities which will last 24 days.

And don't even get me started on the packaging. Each pill is individually packaged in a very tamper resistant plastic and foil case. To open, you have to bend and tear at the same time. As of this writing, I am still trying to master this.

So I have learned the following: The drug that I heralded so much about that changed my life for the last 5 years is no longer an option because of price, that the suggested alternative can only be purchased in limited quantities so I cannot purchase a one month supply, and the packaging is very difficult to open.

This reminds me of the growing importance of non drug allergy treatment.

In closing, as 2008 winds to a close, I urge you to take a moment to reflect on the many blessings you have. Our company has been very fortunate this year. I am very thankful to our customers and our staff. We love what we do and we look forward to 2009. And if you are traveling this holiday, remember to take one of our Allergy Armor pillow covers with you. You'll sleep better.