Bringing on the generic drugs

Times are tough enough that more people are beginning to switch to generic drugs to save money. Insurers like Indianapolis-based WellPoint are playing a role, too, by pushing policy holders toward generics.

People also are splitting pills and seeing doctors less often to save hard-earned dollars.

The trend could cost pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly and Co. $10 billion in revenue in 2009 because prescription drug sales are projected to grow at the slowest rate in at least a half-century.

In the end, how will this affect health? Are people being penny wise and pound foolish? And are you as confident in generic medications as the original drugs?