See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor
Yes, there are generic versions of Lipitor available on the market. Lipitor, the brand-name drug for atorvastatin, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. The patent for Lipitor expired in November 2011 [1], allowing other manufacturers to produce and sell generic versions of the drug.
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the first generic atorvastatin was approved by the FDA in November 2011 [1]. Since then, multiple generic manufacturers have entered the market, leading to increased competition and lower prices for consumers.
It is important to note that while generic drugs contain the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts, they may have different inactive ingredients, such as binders, coatings, and fillers [2]. These differences do not affect the drug's safety or efficacy, but they may cause minor variations in how the drug is absorbed and how it affects the body [2].
When considering a generic version of a drug, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure that the generic version is appropriate for your specific needs and medical history [3].
Sources:
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Calcium. Retrieved from <
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin-calcium>
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2013). Generic Drugs: Questions and Answers. Retrieved from <
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drugs-questions-and-answers>
3. American Heart Association. (2019). Generic vs. Brand-Name Medications. Retrieved from <
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-a-generic-drug>