People taking some of the most popular prescription medications could soon be saving some cash.

The next year and a half will bring generic versions of seven of the world's 20 best-selling drugs, including the top two: cholesterol fighter Lipitor and blood thinner Plavix.

Many drug patents are facing expiration dates, which means cheaper generic versions of the drugs could soon be hitting the market. 

The FDA gives exclusive rights to drug companies developing new medications for a specific amount of time.  When the patents expire, other companies can make the same drug. 

Among major drugs on the list for the next year: 
Zyprexa, which treats schizophrenia, October
Lipitor, a popular cholesterol drug, goes generic in November 
Solodyn, used to treat bacterial infections, November
Lexapro, used to treat depression, March 
Provigil, which treats sleep problems, April

Click on the Drug Patent Expiration Table link to see the estimated dates of possible first time generic prescriptions.  You can also find the amount of retail sales the drugs bring in.  You can also search for generic drugs by name HERE.

The FDA has pages of resources for consumers on its website to help learn more about generic medications.  To see a list of popular questions and answers click on THIS LINK.

To see how drugs are developed and approved by the FDA CLICK HERE.

Below is a list of other resources on generic drugs:

Drug approvals by month

Drug approvals July 2011

First time generic drug approvals

First time generic drug approvals June 2011 

First time generic drug approvals May 2011 

List of generic drugs

If available, do you choose generic drugs over name brand?  Tell us "Your Point of View" by taking part in the poll below and leaving your comments.