Who Benefits When Drugs Go Off Patent

If you look in your medicine cabinet, chances are you'll see at least one of the following blockbuster drugs: Lipitor, Plavix, Lexapro or Singulair. They lower cholesterol, help prevent heart attacks and treat depression, asthma and allergies.

See also: Paying less for drugs in the Part D 'Doughnut Hole'.

What happens when prescription drugs are no longer under patent? — Photo by Tetra Images/GettyImages

They're also among the top selling prescription medicines going off the "patent cliff" — that's what the drug industry calls the moment patented drugs lose their exclusivity. This usually happens 15 years after the drug is introduced to the public — a time when pharmaceutical companies worry about making profits as generic competition enters the drug market.

This Inside E Street takes a look at the strategies pharmaceutical companies take once a blockbuster drug goes off patent — strategies aimed at limiting both competition and, unfortunately, your savings on your meds.

You may also like: Don't miss out on drug savings.