It's not just for the cereal aisle anymore, generic over name brand saves behind the pharmacy counter too. Generic drugs work just as well as name-brands, often at a fraction of the cost. One-size does not fit all and only your doctor can tell you if switching to a cheaper option is right for you.

Condition / generic drug / cost per month
Allergies, hay fever, hives / loratadine / $13
ADHD / Metylphenidate / $40
High LDL / Lovastatin / $34
Depression / Fluoxetine / $42
Diabetes, Type 2 / Metformin / $42
Heartburn, GERD / Prilosec OTC / $26
Insomnia / Zolpidem / $29
Osteoarthirtis / Ibuprofen / $18
Schizophrenia / Perhenazine / $56

Check out Consumer Reports big database of ailments and the most cost-effective drugs available to treat them.

(Photo: zieak)