See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels [1]. While Lipitor is primarily known for its ability to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, it also has an impact on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "good" cholesterol.

Lipitor can enhance HDL function in several ways:

1. Increasing HDL Levels: Lipitor has been shown to increase HDL cholesterol levels in the blood [2]. This is beneficial because higher HDL levels are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

2. Improving HDL Functionality: Lipitor can enhance the ability of HDL to remove cholesterol from cells and transport it to the liver for excretion [3]. This process, known as reverse cholesterol transport, is a critical function of HDL.

3. Reducing Inflammation: Lipitor has anti-inflammatory effects, which can improve HDL function [4]. Inflammation can impair HDL's ability to remove cholesterol from cells, so reducing inflammation can help restore HDL function.

4. Stabilizing HDL Particles: Lipitor may also increase the size and stability of HDL particles, which can improve their functionality [5].

In summary, Lipitor changes HDL function by increasing HDL levels, improving HDL's ability to remove cholesterol from cells, reducing inflammation, and increasing the size and stability of HDL particles. These effects can contribute to a lower risk of heart disease.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3924949/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3518172/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3654217/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4374720/