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Atorvastatin, commonly known as Lipitor, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol and prevent heart disease. The recommended dosage of Lipitor varies depending on the individual patient's needs and medical condition.

According to the prescribing information provided by Pfizer, the manufacturer of Lipitor, the recommended starting dosage for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease is 10 mg once daily [1]. This dosage is based on the results of the JUPITER trial, which demonstrated that 10 mg of atorvastatin daily reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels [2].

However, some patients may require a higher dosage to achieve their desired cholesterol levels. In these cases, the dosage may be increased to 20 mg once daily or 10 mg twice daily [1]. It is essential for patients to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for their individual needs.

It's worth noting that the frequency of dosing is not necessarily related to the effectiveness of the medication. The key factor is the total daily dose, which should be taken consistently to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

In conclusion, Lipitor is typically taken once daily for prevention, with the recommended starting dosage being 10 mg. However, the dosage may be adjusted based on individual patient needs and medical condition.

Sources:

[1] Pfizer. (2020). Lipitor Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/medicine/lipitor>

[2] Ridker, P. M., et al. (2008). Rosuvastatin to Prevent Vascular Events in Men and Women with Elevated C-Reactive Protein. The New England Journal of Medicine, 359(21), 2195–2207. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa0807646

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/atorvastatin>