Give generic pharmaceutical manufacturers a chance to increase your profits

Generics help keep health care affordable. Often, generic drugs are the chemical equivalent of the more expensive brand name drug. They have the same therapeutic effects, so prescribing these to your patients can save you both a nice chunk of cash.

I recommend: Go to Barr Pharmaceuticals for the generic drugs they offer; selections range from acetaminophen with codeine to zonisamide. Teva Pharmaceuticals USA also offers a very large selection of generics.

Make a statement using brand name drug manufacturers

Some patients prefer brand name products. When giving out samples, most patients like to see that well-known name on the package and that will make them feel confident in the product you've given them.

I recommend: Stock up on prescription and sample products for your eye care practice at Bausch & Lomb. They offer a convenient online ordering system for all your vision care and surgical needs. For your women's health center, Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals provides many well-known brands that women trust.

Find a veterinary drug manufacturer to supply your animal care practice

Being a veterinarian is unique in that you can both prescribe and dispense full supplies of drugs. You're not limited to samples to push certain brands. You're responsible for stocking not just preventive vaccines but a whole closet-full of drugs to give to pet owners when their animal is sick.

I recommend: Buy vaccines for companion animals at Intervet. They also carry drugs for pigs, horses, ruminants, poultry and marine animals. Wyeth, a reputable manufacturer of drugs for both animals and humans, offers a selection of vaccines and pharmaceuticals for almost any animal that comes into your office.