See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor
After reviewing the available information, I can infer that the Lipitor prescription required adjustment due to the patent expiration of Lipitor, which allowed for the introduction of generic alternatives [1]. This development led to a change in the medication's cost, potentially influencing the prescription adjustment.
Lipitor, a medication used to treat high cholesterol, had its patent expiration in November 2011 in the United States [1]. Once a drug's patent expires, other manufacturers can produce and sell generic versions of the drug, leading to increased competition and reduced prices [1][2]. Consequently, this can impact the overall cost of the medication for patients, insurance companies, and pharmacies.
In the case of Lipitor, the patent expiration resulted in the availability of more affordable generic alternatives, such as atorvastatin [1]. This shift might have prompted the adjustment of the Lipitor prescription, as the generic option could offer significant cost savings for all parties involved.
In summary, the Lipitor prescription required adjustment primarily due to the patent expiration of Lipitor, which allowed for the introduction of less expensive generic alternatives. This development led to a change in the medication's cost, potentially influencing the prescription adjustment [1].
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Patent Expiration and Generic Entry. Retrieved from
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/lipitor-atorvastatin/
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021, February 18). Generic Drugs: Questions and Answers. Retrieved from
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drugs-questions-and-answers