Pharmacy
If you're taking a brand-name prescription drug, you may be spending more money than you need to for your medicine. Switching to a generic version could add up to big savings.

Generic drugs are closely regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. They are as safe and effective, work just as well and usually cost a lot less than brand-name drugs.

Ask your doctor if a generic drug is available for any prescription medication that you take.

The chart below compares a few commonly prescribed non-Formulary brand-name drugs and their generic or Formulary alternatives.

Therapeutic Use Non-Formulary or Brand-Name Drug Name

AWP for 30-Day Supply*

 Generic or Formulary Alternative Drug Name

AWP for 30-Day Supply*

Generic or Formulary Alternative Savings
High cholesterol Lipitor®
20 mg.

$136.20

simvastatin
40 mg.

$26.70

$109.50
Heartburn, ulcer treatment Nexium®
20 mg.

$163.80

omeprazole
20 mg.

$32.10

$131.70
Depression Celexa®
20 mg.

$99.60

 citalopram
20 mg.

$6.90

$92.70
Allergies, Rhinitis Flonase®
nasal spray

$94.70

 Fluticasone
nasal spray

$45.90

$48.80
Insomnia Ambien®
10 mg.

$154.20

 zolpidem
10 mg.

$65.70

$88.50
Bacterial infection Zithromax®
250 mg. Z-pack

$57.70

 azithromycin
250 mg. Z-pack

$28.70

$29.00
Allergies, Rhinitis Zyrtec®
10 mg.

$76.50

 loratadine (OTC)
10 mg.

$4.50

$72.00
High blood pressure Altace®
10 mg.

$71.70

 lisinopril
10 mg.

$3.30

$68.40
AWP = Average Wholesale Price
* = What the pharmacy would be paid based on AWP or generic pricing as of May 2007

Please note: Prices at non-participating pharmacies may be higher. The actual price you pay is determined by your pharmacy benefit plan.

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