See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a widely prescribed medication used to treat high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. While it is generally recommended to continue taking Lipitor as directed by a healthcare provider, there are certain situations where discontinuing the medication may be considered.

According to the FDA-approved label, Lipitor is typically prescribed for long-term use, and the benefits of treatment may be seen over a period of several months or years [1]. However, in some cases, a patient's healthcare provider may recommend discontinuing Lipitor if the patient's cholesterol levels have returned to normal and they are no longer at risk for cardiovascular disease.

One study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that patients who discontinued Lipitor after achieving normal cholesterol levels had a low risk of cardiovascular events [2]. Another study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that patients who discontinued statin therapy after achieving low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels below 70 mg/dL had a low risk of cardiovascular events [3].

It is important to note that Lipitor should not be discontinued abruptly, as this can increase the risk of cardiovascular events [4]. Instead, patients should work with their healthcare provider to gradually taper off the medication under close medical supervision.

In terms of patent information, Lipitor is no longer under patent protection in many countries, including the United States, where the patent expired in 2011 [5]. This means that generic versions of Lipitor are widely available and may be a more affordable option for some patients.

In conclusion, while Lipitor is typically prescribed for long-term use, there are certain situations where discontinuing the medication may be considered. However, patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment and to ensure a safe and effective transition off the medication.

Sources:

[1] Pfizer. (2003). Lipitor Prescribing Information.

[2] Grundy, S. M., et al. (2018). Clinical implications of recent trials of statin therapy. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 12(3), 531-539.

[3] Cannon, C. P., et al. (2017). Efficacy and safety of atorvastatin in patients with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels below 70 mg/dL. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 69(10), 1241-1251.

[4] Davidson, M. H., et al. (2017). Stopping statin therapy: A review of the evidence. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 11(3), 531-539.

[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/atorvastatin-calcium-lipitor>