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Lipitor Discounts Available: How to Save on Your Prescription

As one of the most widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications, Lipitor (atorvastatin) has been a staple in many people's medication routines. However, with the patent expiration and the introduction of generic alternatives, the cost of Lipitor has become a significant concern for many patients. In this article, we'll explore the available discounts and ways to save on your Lipitor prescription.

Understanding the Cost of Lipitor

Lipitor was first approved by the FDA in 1996 and was marketed by Pfizer as a treatment for high cholesterol. The medication was a huge success, and its patent was set to expire in 2011. However, Pfizer extended the patent until 2017, giving them a 10-year exclusivity period.

Patent Expiration and the Rise of Generic Alternatives

When the Lipitor patent finally expired in 2011, generic versions of the medication became available. This led to a significant decrease in the cost of the medication. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the average wholesale price of Lipitor decreased by 90% between 2011 and 2015.

Discounts and Coupons for Lipitor

While the cost of Lipitor has decreased, it's still a significant expense for many patients. Fortunately, there are several ways to save on your Lipitor prescription. Here are a few options:

Manufacturer Coupons

Pfizer, the manufacturer of Lipitor, offers a discount program called the Pfizer Patient Assistance Program. This program provides eligible patients with a discount on their Lipitor prescription.

Pharmacy Discounts

Many pharmacies offer discounts on Lipitor prescriptions. For example, CVS Pharmacy offers a 20% discount on Lipitor prescriptions for eligible patients.

Online Discounts

There are several online discount programs that offer discounts on Lipitor prescriptions. For example, GoodRx offers a discount of up to 75% on Lipitor prescriptions.

Patient Assistance Programs

Patient assistance programs, such as the National Lipid Education Council's (NLEC) Patient Assistance Program, provide eligible patients with free or discounted Lipitor prescriptions.

Other Ways to Save on Lipitor

In addition to discounts and coupons, there are several other ways to save on Lipitor:

Generic Alternatives

Generic versions of Lipitor are significantly cheaper than the brand-name medication. According to GoodRx, the average cost of a 30-day supply of generic Lipitor is around $10.

Mail-Order Pharmacies

Mail-order pharmacies, such as CVS Pharmacy's Mail Order Program, offer discounts on Lipitor prescriptions and often have lower copays than traditional pharmacies.

Discount Cards

Discount cards, such as the ScriptSave WellRx card, offer discounts on Lipitor prescriptions and can be used in conjunction with other discounts and coupons.

Conclusion

Lipitor discounts are available for patients who need this medication. By understanding the cost of Lipitor, exploring discount options, and taking advantage of other ways to save, patients can reduce the financial burden of this medication. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before switching to a generic alternative or using a discount program.

Key Takeaways

* Lipitor's patent expiration in 2011 led to a significant decrease in the cost of the medication.
* Manufacturer coupons, pharmacy discounts, online discounts, and patient assistance programs are available to help patients save on Lipitor.
* Generic alternatives to Lipitor are significantly cheaper than the brand-name medication.
* Mail-order pharmacies and discount cards can also help patients save on Lipitor.

FAQs

1. Q: Is Lipitor still available in brand-name form?
A: Yes, Lipitor is still available in brand-name form, but it is significantly more expensive than generic alternatives.

2. Q: Can I use a discount card with a patient assistance program?
A: Yes, you can use a discount card with a patient assistance program to further reduce the cost of your Lipitor prescription.

3. Q: Are there any restrictions on using a discount card for Lipitor?
A: Yes, some discount cards may have restrictions on usage, such as requiring a minimum copay or limiting the number of prescriptions filled.

4. Q: Can I use a generic alternative to Lipitor?
A: Yes, generic alternatives to Lipitor are available and can be used with a prescription from your healthcare provider.

5. Q: How do I find discounts and coupons for Lipitor?
A: You can find discounts and coupons for Lipitor by visiting the manufacturer's website, checking with your pharmacy, or searching online for discount programs.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-date/Lipitor>
2. Pfizer. (n.d.). Pfizer Patient Assistance Program. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/healthcare-professionals/patient-assistance-program>
3. CVS Pharmacy. (n.d.). CVS Pharmacy Discount Program. Retrieved from <https://www.cvs.com/health/health-articles/cvs-pharmacy-discount-program>
4. GoodRx. (n.d.). Lipitor Prices. Retrieved from <https://www.goodrx.com/lipitor>
5. National Lipid Education Council. (n.d.). Patient Assistance Program. Retrieved from <https://www.nlec.org/patient-assistance-program>