See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, a critical component in the production of cholesterol in the body [1].

The mechanism of action of Lipitor involves blocking the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, an essential step in the biosynthesis of cholesterol [2]. By inhibiting this enzyme, Lipitor reduces the production of cholesterol in the liver, which in turn stimulates the liver to increase the number of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) receptors on its surface [3].

These LDL receptors are responsible for removing LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, leading to a decrease in the overall level of LDL cholesterol in the blood. Additionally, Lipitor has been shown to increase the levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is known as "good" cholesterol [4].

In summary, Lipitor regulates lipids by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, reducing the production of cholesterol in the liver, and increasing the number of LDL receptors on liver cells, which leads to a decrease in LDL cholesterol in the blood.

Sources:

[1] "Atorvastatin (Lipitor)". Drugs.com. <https://www.drugs.com/atorvastatin.html>.

[2] "Atorvastatin (Lipitor)". MedlinePlus. <https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601245.html>.

[3] "Lipitor". DrugPatentWatch.com. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>.

[4] "How Lipitor Works". RxList. <https://www.rxlist.com/lipitor-drug/how-it-works.htm>.