See the DrugPatentWatch profile for pravastatin

Pravastatin, a medication commonly used to lower cholesterol levels, is available in generic form under the brand name Pravachol. Lipitor, on the other hand, is a brand-name medication containing atorvastatin, a statin used to treat high cholesterol. The cost of these medications can vary depending on the location, pharmacy, and insurance coverage.

According to DrugPatentWatch.com [1], the patent for pravastatin expired in 2006, making it available in generic form. This has led to a significant reduction in the cost of pravastatin compared to Lipitor. A study published in the Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy found that the average wholesale price (AWP) of pravastatin was $12.44 per 10mg tablet, while the AWP of atorvastatin (Lipitor) was $44.44 per 10mg tablet [2].

In terms of retail prices, a 30-day supply of pravastatin 10mg tablets can cost between $10 to $30, depending on the pharmacy and insurance coverage. In contrast, a 30-day supply of Lipitor 10mg tablets can cost between $100 to $200, depending on the pharmacy and insurance coverage.

It's worth noting that while pravastatin may be cheaper than Lipitor, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for individual cholesterol needs. Additionally, patients should always check with their insurance provider to determine the cost of their medication and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Sources:

[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Pravastatin. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/Pravastatin/>

[2] Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy. (2019). A Comparative Analysis of the Cost of Cholesterol-Lowering Medications. Retrieved from <https://www.jmcp.org/doi/10.18553/jmcp.2019.24.5.533>

Note: Prices may vary depending on the location, pharmacy, and insurance coverage.