"And now there's another reason to go generic. You can fill your prescription at one of the big box retailers like costco or wal-mart or target for as little as four dollars for a month's supply, and that includes popular drugs like generic Zocor, Prozac, even Clomid," said Toni Hope, health editor, Good Housekeeping.

If you take prescription Clarinex for allergies, ask about over-the-counter Loratadine, which could save $110 for thirty tablets. And if you're starting a new drug regiment, see if your doctor can give you a starter kit to test before buying a month's worth.

Here's another tip: If you take the same pills every day, you might save money if your insurer has a “half-tablet” program. Pills in bigger doses often cost less when you split them in half and take them that way. But check with your doctor first.

To learn more, check out the September issue of Good Housekeeping or visit www.goodhousekeeping.com.