See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Based on the information available, generic versions of Lipitor, the brand-name drug used to treat high cholesterol, have been proven to be just as effective as the brand-name drug. Generic drugs must meet the same rigorous standards as brand-name drugs in order to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [1].

The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin, and generic versions of Lipitor contain the same active ingredient in the same strength [2]. According to the FDA, generic drugs are required to have the same quality, strength, purity, and stability as brand-name drugs [1].

It is also worth noting that the FDA has a rigorous approval process for generic drugs, which includes a review of the drug's active ingredient, as well as its inactive ingredients, manufacturing process, and labeling [1]. Additionally, the FDA conducts inspections of the facilities where generic drugs are made to ensure that they are in compliance with the FDA's regulations [1].

It is important to note that while generic drugs are required to have the same active ingredient, they may differ in terms of inactive ingredients, such as fillers and dyes, and may also differ in terms of their size, shape, and color [1]. However, these differences do not affect the safety or effectiveness of the drug [1].

In summary, based on the information available, generic versions of Lipitor are just as effective as the brand-name drug. The FDA requires that generic drugs meet the same standards as brand-name drugs in terms of quality, strength, purity, and stability [1].

Sources:

[1] <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drug-facts>
[2] <https://www.drugs.com/mtm/atorvastatin.html>
[3] <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/generic-precedent/atorvastatin-calcium-lipitor/>