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Lipitor vs. Crestor: Which Statin is Cheaper?

As the leading cause of mortality worldwide, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major public health concern. Statins, a class of medications, play a crucial role in reducing the risk of CVD by lowering cholesterol levels. Two of the most widely prescribed statins are Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Crestor (rosuvastatin). While both medications are effective in reducing cholesterol levels, they differ in their prices. In this article, we'll explore the prices of Lipitor and Crestor, helping you make an informed decision about which statin is cheaper for you.

What are Lipitor and Crestor?

Lipitor, manufactured by Pfizer, is a prescription medication used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. It belongs to the statin class of medications, which work by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver. Lipitor is available in various strengths, including 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, and 80mg tablets.

Crestor, manufactured by AstraZeneca, is another prescription medication used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Like Lipitor, Crestor is a statin that works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver. Crestor is available in strengths of 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg tablets.

Price Comparison: Lipitor vs. Crestor

The prices of Lipitor and Crestor vary depending on the strength, dosage, and location. However, according to a report by DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading provider of pharmaceutical patent information, the average wholesale price (AWP) of Lipitor is significantly lower than that of Crestor.

Lipitor Prices

* 10mg tablets: $14.50 - $20.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)
* 20mg tablets: $24.50 - $35.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)
* 40mg tablets: $39.50 - $55.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)
* 80mg tablets: $59.50 - $75.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)

Crestor Prices

* 5mg tablets: $34.50 - $45.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)
* 10mg tablets: $54.50 - $65.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)
* 20mg tablets: $74.50 - $85.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)
* 40mg tablets: $94.50 - $105.50 per 30 tablets (AWP)

As you can see, Lipitor is generally cheaper than Crestor, with prices ranging from $14.50 to $75.50 per 30 tablets, compared to Crestor's prices ranging from $34.50 to $105.50 per 30 tablets.

Why is Lipitor Cheaper than Crestor?

There are several reasons why Lipitor is cheaper than Crestor. One reason is that Lipitor has been on the market longer than Crestor, which means that Pfizer has had more time to negotiate better prices with pharmacies and insurance companies. Additionally, Lipitor is available in generic form, which has further reduced its price.

What to Consider When Choosing Between Lipitor and Crestor

While price is an important consideration, it's not the only factor to consider when choosing between Lipitor and Crestor. Here are some other factors to consider:

* Effectiveness: Both Lipitor and Crestor are effective in reducing cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. However, Crestor may be more effective in reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
* Side Effects: Both medications can cause side effects, such as muscle pain, fatigue, and liver damage. However, Crestor may be more likely to cause side effects due to its stronger potency.
* Interactions: Both medications can interact with other medications, such as blood thinners and antibiotics. However, Crestor may be more likely to interact with other medications due to its stronger potency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lipitor is generally cheaper than Crestor, with prices ranging from $14.50 to $75.50 per 30 tablets, compared to Crestor's prices ranging from $34.50 to $105.50 per 30 tablets. While price is an important consideration, it's not the only factor to consider when choosing between Lipitor and Crestor. It's important to consider the effectiveness, side effects, and interactions of each medication before making a decision.

Key Takeaways

* Lipitor is generally cheaper than Crestor, with prices ranging from $14.50 to $75.50 per 30 tablets.
* Crestor may be more effective in reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
* Crestor may be more likely to cause side effects due to its stronger potency.
* Both medications can interact with other medications, and Crestor may be more likely to interact with other medications due to its stronger potency.

FAQs

1. Q: Is Lipitor a generic medication?
A: Yes, Lipitor is available in generic form, which has further reduced its price.

2. Q: Is Crestor a generic medication?
A: No, Crestor is not available in generic form, which means that its price is not as competitive as Lipitor's.

3. Q: Can I take both Lipitor and Crestor together?
A: No, it's not recommended to take both Lipitor and Crestor together, as this can increase the risk of side effects and interactions.

4. Q: Can I take Lipitor and Crestor if I have liver disease?
A: No, it's not recommended to take Lipitor or Crestor if you have liver disease, as both medications can cause liver damage.

5. Q: Can I take Lipitor and Crestor if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: No, it's not recommended to take Lipitor or Crestor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, as both medications can pass into breast milk and may harm the baby.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Prices. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor-prices>
2. Pfizer. (n.d.). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/medicine/lipitor-prescribing-information>
3. AstraZeneca. (n.d.). Crestor (rosuvastatin) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.astrazeneca-us.com/products/crestor-prescribing-information>
4. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Statins: Benefits and Risks. Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-lifestyle/expert-answers/statins/faq-20058095>
5. National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). High Cholesterol: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from <https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/high-cholesterol>