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First of all, thanks to everyone who offered suggestions.  To those  who 
suggested that generics are not a problem I need to clarify that I just went  
through a gluten reaction from a drug and it was severe.  Adding gluten to  
an existing problem is tough.  Also my doctor did indeed file the proper  
paperwork and write Dispense As Written on the prescription (therefore the  
pharmacist could not fill it with a generic and the insurance company would 
not  approve it).  To clear up another misunderstanding I do pay a larger 
co-pay  for brand name drugs and have no problem with that so that is not the  
issue.  Some people suggested that I change my diet and not take blood  
pressure medicine.  Even though I know that all who contribute are well  meaning 
this may be somewhat irresponsible to suggest not knowing all the  factors.  
I spent 5 hours in an emergency room trying to get my blood  pressure below 
200 when I have never had high blood pressure before so I feel I  am 
getting excellent medical advice.  Others suggested that insurance  companies are 
a business and we should not expect them to accommodate our  special needs.  
I strongly disagree with this idea.  I am pursuing  getting approval for 
the medicine which my doctor feels is best for my condition  and in the 
meantime I am paying for it myself without insurance coverage.   If this were a 
one time thing it would not be such a big deal but since this may  be a 
lifetime issue it represents a great deal of out of pocket expense.   My final 
point is that I do not think that our health care should be determined  by an 
insurance company instead of our physician.  Thanks again for taking  the 
time to respond to my question, especially those of you who offered specific  
advice about how you deal with the problem and what resources you use.   
Olivia in VA

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