See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Is Lipitor's Generic Version Available at All Pharmacies?

Understanding Lipitor and its Patent Status

Lipitor, a popular cholesterol-lowering medication, has been a staple in the pharmaceutical industry for decades. Developed by Pfizer, Lipitor (atorvastatin) was first approved by the FDA in 1996 and quickly became one of the most prescribed medications in the world. However, with the patent expiration, the question remains: is Lipitor's generic version available at all pharmacies?

The Patent Expiration Timeline

Lipitor's patent was set to expire in 2011, but Pfizer managed to extend its patent protection through a series of patent extensions and settlements. The patent expiration timeline is crucial in determining the availability of generic versions. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor's patent expired on November 30, 2011, in the United States.

Generic Versions of Lipitor

After the patent expiration, several generic versions of Lipitor were approved by the FDA. Some of the generic manufacturers include:

* Teva Pharmaceuticals
* Mylan Pharmaceuticals
* Watson Laboratories
* Ranbaxy Laboratories

These generic versions are available in various strengths, including 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, and 80mg. The generic versions are often cheaper than the branded Lipitor, making them a more affordable option for patients.

Availability of Generic Lipitor at Pharmacies

So, is Lipitor's generic version available at all pharmacies? The answer is yes, but with some limitations. While many pharmacies carry generic Lipitor, it's essential to note that availability may vary depending on the location and pharmacy chain.

Pharmacy Chains that Carry Generic Lipitor

Some pharmacy chains that carry generic Lipitor include:

* CVS Pharmacy
* Walgreens
* Rite Aid
* Costco Pharmacy
* Target Pharmacy

Pharmacies that May Not Carry Generic Lipitor

However, not all pharmacies carry generic Lipitor. Some independent pharmacies or smaller chains may not carry the generic version due to various reasons, such as limited inventory or lack of demand.

Tips for Finding Generic Lipitor at Pharmacies

If you're having trouble finding generic Lipitor at your local pharmacy, here are some tips:

* Check with your pharmacist: Ask your pharmacist if they carry generic Lipitor or can special order it for you.
* Check online pharmacies: Online pharmacies like CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, and Rite Aid often carry generic Lipitor.
* Check with generic manufacturers: Contact generic manufacturers like Teva Pharmaceuticals or Mylan Pharmaceuticals to find authorized distributors or pharmacies that carry their products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lipitor's generic version is available at many pharmacies, but availability may vary depending on the location and pharmacy chain. Patients can check with their pharmacist, online pharmacies, or generic manufacturers to find the generic version. Remember to always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before switching to a generic version of any medication.

Key Takeaways

* Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, allowing generic versions to be developed and approved.
* Several generic manufacturers, including Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, and Watson Laboratories, produce generic Lipitor.
* Availability of generic Lipitor may vary depending on the pharmacy chain and location.
* Patients can check with their pharmacist, online pharmacies, or generic manufacturers to find the generic version.

FAQs

1. Is Lipitor's generic version available at all pharmacies?
* No, availability may vary depending on the pharmacy chain and location.
2. Who are some of the generic manufacturers of Lipitor?
* Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Watson Laboratories, and Ranbaxy Laboratories.
3. Can I special order generic Lipitor from my pharmacy?
* Yes, ask your pharmacist if they can special order it for you.
4. Are online pharmacies a good option for finding generic Lipitor?
* Yes, online pharmacies like CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, and Rite Aid often carry generic Lipitor.
5. Can I get a discount on generic Lipitor?
* Yes, many pharmacies offer discounts on generic Lipitor. Ask your pharmacist about available discounts.

Cited Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/atorvastatin-lipitor>
2. Pfizer. (n.d.). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Tablets. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/medicine/lipitor>
3. FDA. (n.d.). Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/oops/index.cfm>