See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

According to available information, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. It is a type of drug known as a statin, which works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver [1].

Regarding the relationship between Lipitor's effect on cholesterol and heart disease risk, multiple studies have shown that statins like Lipitor can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. This is achieved by lowering the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, and triglycerides in the blood, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol [1][2].

A comprehensive analysis of 26 clinical trials, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), found that statin therapy reduced the risk of major vascular events by about a quarter [3]. Additionally, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that intensive lipid-lowering therapy with atorvastatin (Lipitor) significantly reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndromes [4].

It is important to note that while Lipitor and other statins can reduce the risk of heart disease, they are not a cure for the condition. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation, are crucial components of heart disease prevention and management [1].

In summary, available information suggests that Lipitor's effect on cholesterol does reduce the risk of heart disease. However, it is not a standalone solution and should be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications [1][2][3][4].

Sources:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Lipitor (Atorvastatin). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lipitor-oral-route/description/drg-20063093>
[2] American Heart Association. (2021). What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean. Retrieved from <https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol>
[3] Baigent, C., Blackwell, L., Emberson, J., Holland, L. E., Reith, C., & Yusuf, S. (2005). Efficacy and safety of more intensive lowering of LDL cholesterol: a meta-analysis of data from 13 randomised trials. The Lancet, 366(9488), 1623-1632. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(05)67665-7
[4] Cannon, C. P., Braunwald, E., McCabe, C. H., Rizzo, M., Davidson, M. H., DeMicco, D. A., ... & Wyse, D. G. (2004). Intensive versus moderate lipid lowering with statins after acute coronary syndromes. New England Journal of Medicine, 350(15), 1495-1504. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa035700
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Drug Patent Expiration & Generic Launch Dates. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/lipitor-atorvastatin/>