See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Generic Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. It works by lowering the levels of "bad" cholesterol and fats in the blood.

The brand version of Lipitor is manufactured by Pfizer and has been available since 1996. The patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, allowing other manufacturers to produce generic versions of the drug.

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, generic Lipitor has been one of the most prescribed drugs in the United States since its patent expiration [1]. The active ingredient, atorvastatin, is the same in both the brand and generic versions.

Studies have shown that generic Lipitor is just as effective as the brand version in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease [2]. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that generic drugs have the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand-name drug [3].

In terms of cost, generic Lipitor is typically less expensive than the brand version. According to GoodRx, the average retail price of a 30-day supply of brand-name Lipitor is around $350, while the average retail price of a generic version is around $10 [4].

It is important to note that while generic drugs must have the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug, they may differ in terms of inactive ingredients, such as fillers and dyes. Some people may experience minor differences in side effects or drug interactions with generic versions, but these differences are not expected to be significant [3].

In conclusion, generic Lipitor has been shown to be just as effective as the brand version in treating high cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease. It is typically less expensive than the brand version and is widely available from various manufacturers. However, as with any medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Generic Lipitor. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>
2. Choudhry, N. K., Stoa, J., Glynn, R. J., Mogun, H., & Avorn, J. (2014). Comparative effectiveness of brand-name and generic statins in older patients. JAMA, 311(2), 165-176.
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Generic Drugs: Questions and Answers. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-prescription-and-over-counter-medicines/generic-drugs-questions-and-answers>
4. GoodRx. (2023). Lipitor Prices, Coupons and Patient Assistance Programs. Retrieved from <https://www.goodrx.com/lipitor>