Generics can cost up to 80 percent less than their brand-name versions and save consumers an estimated $8 billion to $10 billion a year. They're less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have the investment costs of the developers of new drugs, and rarely spend much on advertising, so they can sell their products at lower cost. Generic drugs are just as safe and effective—as their brand-name counterparts. For example, to treat allergies, you could take the brand-name drug Claritin for up to $37 a month, or its generic version, loratadine, for less than $12. Both drugs are available without a prescription. If a generic isn't available, ask if your doctor can substitute a different, cheaper drug that works just as well.