See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Based on the information available, I cannot provide an exact timeline for when Lipitor loses effectiveness for all individuals. Lipitor, a medication used to treat high cholesterol, typically maintains its effectiveness as long as it is taken as directed. However, its effectiveness can vary from person to person due to factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and the presence of other medical conditions [1].

Once a patent for a drug like Lipitor expires, generic versions become available on the market. This does not affect the drug's effectiveness, as generic drugs contain the same active ingredients and must meet the same quality, strength, purity, and stability standards as their brand-name counterparts [2].

It is important to note that, while Lipitor and other statins can effectively lower cholesterol levels, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco use are crucial for managing high cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease [3].

In summary, Lipitor's effectiveness is not determined by a specific timeline but rather by individual factors and adherence to the medication regimen. Generic versions of Lipitor maintain the same effectiveness.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). High cholesterol. <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-causes/syc-20353192>
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Generic Drugs: Questions and Answers. <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-prescription-drug-labeling/generic-drugs-questions-and-answers>
3. American Heart Association. (2021). How to Lower Your Cholesterol. <https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/how-to-eat-healthy/lowering-cholesterol/how-to-lower-your-cholesterol>
4. DrugPatentWatch. (2021). Atorvastatin (Lipitor) Patent Expiration and Generic Launch Dates. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/atorvastatin-lipitor-patent-expiration-generic-launch-dates/>