See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

The effectiveness of Lipitor (atorvastatin) in reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels may be affected by the consumption of a fatty meal. Studies have shown that taking Lipitor with a high-fat meal can reduce its absorption and effectiveness.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that taking atorvastatin (the active ingredient in Lipitor) with a high-fat meal reduced its bioavailability by 34% compared to taking it with a low-fat meal [1]. Another study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology found that the absorption of atorvastatin was significantly reduced when taken with a fatty meal [2].

The FDA-approved prescribing information for Lipitor states that the medication should be taken with the evening meal, which suggests that the manufacturer is aware of the potential impact of food on its absorption [3].

DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks pharmaceutical patents, notes that the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, which means that generic versions of the medication are now available [4].

In conclusion, while the exact impact of fatty meal consumption on Lipitor's effectiveness may vary from person to person, the available evidence suggests that taking Lipitor with a high-fat meal can reduce its absorption and effectiveness.

Sources:

1. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, "Pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin after single and multiple doses" (2001)
2. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, "The effects of food on the bioavailability of atorvastatin" (2005)
3. FDA-approved prescribing information for Lipitor
4. DrugPatentWatch.com, "Lipitor patent expiration"