eDrugSearch combines comparison shopping with social networking

Move over comparison shopping engines which only list different prices for products. eDrugSearch has combined comparison shopping with social networking - and in the process has generated more than $2 million for it's member pharmacies.

by Kristina Knight

Cary Byrd, president and founder of eDrugSearch.com said, "Our visitors know they can trust the quality and service of the pharmacies in our database -- and trust us to deliver lower prices on prescription medications than they can find elsewhere."

Since launching, the site has referred more than 875,000 consumers; the company estimates that their referrals generated nearly $500,000 in revenue in March, 2008. The social aspect is still fairly new to the company and allows users to rate and review drugs and pharmacies in the network. Consumers can also learn about FDA updates, get pricing changes and other health news related to their medical condition. They can also connect with consumers who have similar health problems to gain real-life solutions.

Another perk to the site? Since launching the social platform, time spent on-site has increased and users are purchasing more of their medications through the network of pharmacies.

Comparison search engines are becoming increasingly more popular with consumers, especially health engines. With rising drug costs and a lack of adequate insurance, consumers are desperate to find the medications they need at an affordable price. By offering them on-site search to buy those prescriptions, comparison shopping engines engage the user. This is also a plus for the marketer, whose ads will likely be seen by a more engaged user.