Answer:
1. Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a statin used to treat high cholesterol. Prior to its release as generic atorvastatin in 2011, it was considered the top drug by sales for most of the previous decade. It is still one of the most commonly prescribed statins, and though not as inexpensive as simvastatin (Zocor), the generic price has continued to drop.
2. Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure, and in combination with other medications to treat heart failure. Lisinopril was the third ACE inhibitor to become available. It may be more convenient than some of the other options because it is longer-acting, meaning you only need to take one tablet per day rather than two or three.
3. Albuterol is used to treat and prevent bronchospasm. It is a short-acting beta agonist and works by relaxing muscles in the lungs.
4. Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Unithroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid) is a synthetically prepared thyroid hormone that can improve symptoms of thyroid deficiency. There are several brand and generic levothyroxine choices available; however, they aren't interchangeable. Generic levothyroxine is very inexpensive, though most of the brands available are also affordable.
5. Amlodipine (Norvasc) is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). It is one of the most common heart meds, and is on the WHO list of essential medicines for basic health care. It became available as generic amlodipine in 2007, and is one of the most inexpensive generics in the US — even available for free at some pharmacies.
