See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, a medication commonly prescribed to manage cholesterol levels, is known to have a high protein binding rate. This means that a significant portion of Lipitor (atorvastatin) in the body binds to proteins, primarily albumin, leaving a smaller fraction unbound and active [1].

In kidney patients, particularly those with impaired renal function, protein binding can impact the treatment in several ways. First, because a significant portion of Lipitor is protein-bound, it may not be effectively removed from the body through dialysis, which is a common treatment for advanced kidney disease [2].

Second, changes in protein levels, which can occur in kidney disease, can affect the drug's protein binding and, consequently, its active concentration in the body [3]. This could potentially lead to altered drug effectiveness or increased risk of side effects.

However, it's important to note that the clinical significance of these potential impacts can vary widely depending on the individual patient's condition, the dosage of Lipitor, and other factors. Therefore, healthcare providers should carefully consider these factors when prescribing Lipitor to kidney patients [4].

In terms of patent information, DrugPatentWatch.com indicates that Lipitor's main patent expired in 2011, which has led to the availability of generic atorvastatin [5]. This can have implications for cost and accessibility of the medication for kidney patients.

In summary, Lipitor's high protein binding can impact its treatment in kidney patients due to potential alterations in protein levels and the effectiveness of dialysis. Healthcare providers should consider these factors when prescribing this medication.

Sources:
[1] "Atorvastatin" (Lipitor) - DrugBank. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/006732
[2] KDIGO Clinical Practice Guideline for Lipid Management in Chronic Kidney Disease. (2013). Retrieved from https://kdigo.org/guidelines/lipid/
[3] Benet, L. Z. (1995). Clinical pharmacokinetics: concepts and applications. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
[4] Kost, C., & Lippa, A. F. (2016). Statins in Chronic Kidney Disease. American journal of nephrology, 41(3), 213–223. https://doi.org/10.1159/000446132
[5] Atorvastatin (Lipitor) Drug Patent Expiration and Generic Entry. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/atorvastatin-lipitor-us/