See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor vs. Crestor: Which Statin is Cheaper?

The world of statins can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right medication for your cholesterol needs. Two of the most popular statins on the market are Lipitor and Crestor. Both medications have been widely prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, one of the most common questions patients ask is: which statin is cheaper, Lipitor or Crestor?

What are Lipitor and Crestor?

Before we dive into the cost comparison, let's take a brief look at what Lipitor and Crestor are.

Lipitor (Atorvastatin)

Lipitor is a prescription medication used to treat high cholesterol and high triglycerides. It belongs to a class of medications called statins, which work by reducing the production of cholesterol in the liver. Lipitor is available in various strengths, including 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, and 80mg.

Crestor (Rosuvastatin)

Crestor is another prescription medication used to treat high cholesterol and high triglycerides. Like Lipitor, it is a statin that works by reducing the production of cholesterol in the liver. Crestor is available in strengths of 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg.

Cost Comparison: Lipitor vs. Crestor

Now that we've covered the basics of both medications, let's get to the cost comparison. According to data from DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks pharmaceutical patents and pricing, the cost of Lipitor and Crestor can vary depending on the strength and dosage.

Lipitor Prices

* 10mg: $10-$20 per 30-day supply
* 20mg: $15-$30 per 30-day supply
* 40mg: $20-$40 per 30-day supply
* 80mg: $30-$60 per 30-day supply

Crestor Prices

* 5mg: $15-$30 per 30-day supply
* 10mg: $20-$40 per 30-day supply
* 20mg: $30-$60 per 30-day supply
* 40mg: $40-$80 per 30-day supply

As you can see, the prices of both medications vary depending on the strength and dosage. However, based on the data from DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor tends to be cheaper than Crestor, especially for the lower strengths.

Why the Price Difference?

So, why is Lipitor cheaper than Crestor? There are a few reasons for this price difference.

* Patent Expiration: Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, which means that generic versions of the medication are now available. This has driven down the cost of Lipitor. Crestor's patent, on the other hand, is still in effect, which means that only branded versions of the medication are available.
* Competition: With Lipitor's patent expired, there is more competition in the market, which has driven down prices. Crestor, on the other hand, has less competition, which has allowed the manufacturer to maintain higher prices.
* Dosage Form: Lipitor is available in a variety of dosage forms, including tablets and oral suspensions. This has made it easier for manufacturers to produce generic versions of the medication, which has driven down prices. Crestor, on the other hand, is only available in tablet form, which may have limited the availability of generic versions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lipitor tends to be cheaper than Crestor, especially for the lower strengths. However, it's important to note that the cost of both medications can vary depending on the strength and dosage, as well as the pharmacy and insurance provider. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor and pharmacist to determine which medication is best for you and your budget.

Key Takeaways

* Lipitor tends to be cheaper than Crestor, especially for the lower strengths.
* The price difference is due to a combination of factors, including patent expiration, competition, and dosage form.
* It's important to consult with your doctor and pharmacist to determine which medication is best for you and your budget.

FAQs

1. Q: Is Lipitor still available in generic form?
A: Yes, Lipitor is available in generic form from several manufacturers.
2. Q: Can I switch from Crestor to Lipitor?
A: Yes, you can switch from Crestor to Lipitor, but you should consult with your doctor and pharmacist first to ensure that the switch is safe and effective.
3. Q: Are there any differences in the side effects of Lipitor and Crestor?
A: Yes, both medications can cause side effects, but the types and severity of side effects can vary. You should consult with your doctor and pharmacist to discuss the potential side effects of both medications.
4. Q: Can I take Lipitor and Crestor together?
A: No, you should not take Lipitor and Crestor together without consulting with your doctor and pharmacist first. Combining the two medications can increase the risk of side effects and interactions.
5. Q: Are there any alternative statins available?
A: Yes, there are several alternative statins available, including Zocor, Pravachol, and Simvastatin. You should consult with your doctor and pharmacist to determine which alternative statin is best for you.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Prices.
2. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Lipitor (Atorvastatin).
3. WebMD. (2022). Crestor (Rosuvastatin).
4. FDA. (2022). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Label.
5. FDA. (2022). Crestor (Rosuvastatin) Label.