Some prescriptions drugs about to get a lot cheaper

July 17, 2006 (WLS) -- Consumers buying certain prescription drugs may soon find a big drop in prices. That's because some expensive brand name drugs will soon come off patent and be facing competition from generics.

Four of the nation's 10 best-selling prescription medications. including drugs such as Zocor to treat high cholesterol and Flonase for allergies just to name a few, will lose their patent protection this year.

Unlike hospitals or doctor care that is paid mostly by insurance, patients pay a higher share of prescription drug costs out of their own pockets. Generics can cost up to 80 percent less than their branded versions.

Medical experts say generic medications are just as effective as brand name drugs.

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