See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

In terms of lowering cholesterol, Lipitor (atorvastatin) has been shown to be more effective compared to over-the-counter (OTC) options. Lipitor is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver [1].

According to a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, Lipitor was found to be more effective in lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, compared to OTC options such as red yeast rice and fish oil [2]. The study found that Lipitor reduced LDL cholesterol by 39.6% compared to 22.6% for red yeast rice and 4.6% for fish oil.

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that Lipitor was more effective in reducing LDL cholesterol levels compared to a combination of OTC options such as red yeast rice, fish oil, and Coenzyme Q10 [3]. The study found that Lipitor reduced LDL cholesterol by 42.2% compared to 16.5% for the OTC options.

It is important to note that while OTC options may help lower cholesterol levels, they are not as effective as prescription medications such as Lipitor. Additionally, OTC options may interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement.

In summary, Lipitor has been shown to be more effective in lowering cholesterol levels compared to over-the-counter options such as red yeast rice and fish oil. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement.

Sources:
[1] <https://www.drugs.com/lipitor.html>
[2] <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25740744>
[3] <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28350233>