See the DrugPatentWatch profile for atorvastatin

Atorvastatin is a type of drug known as an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor, which works by blocking the enzyme HMG CoA reductase, thereby reducing the production of cholesterol in the body. This class of drugs is commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease.

Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, manufactured by Pfizer. Therefore, the HMG CoA reductase inhibition of atorvastatin and Lipitor is identical, as they contain the same active ingredient.

It is important to note that while atorvastatin and Lipitor have the same mechanism of action, there may be differences in the inactive ingredients, formulation, and manufacturing process between generic and brand-name drugs. These differences can potentially lead to variations in the drug's absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, although such differences are typically minimal and do not significantly affect the drug's therapeutic effect.

Sources:

1. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2021). Atorvastatin. MedlinePlus. <https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601265.html>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Calcium. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin-calcium>
3. Pfizer. (n.d.). Lipitor. <https://www.lipitor.com/>