Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a commonly prescribed medication for high cholesterol levels. According to the drug patent watch [1], Lipitor is a brand-name drug that was first approved by the FDA in 1996. Lipitor belongs to a class of medications called statins, which are used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Statins work by blocking an enzyme that the liver uses to produce cholesterol. As a result, the liver produces less cholesterol, and the levels of cholesterol in the blood decrease.

According to the Mayo Clinic [2], statins are generally considered to be the most effective cholesterol-lowering medications available. They can lower LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) levels by an average of 50%, and they can also help to raise HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol) levels. Lipitor is one of the most commonly prescribed statins, and it has been shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels.

However, there are other statins available, such as simvastatin, which is also used to lower cholesterol levels. According to GoodRx [3], both Lipitor and simvastatin are effective at lowering cholesterol levels, but they work in slightly different ways. Lipitor is generally considered to be more potent than simvastatin, meaning that it can lower cholesterol levels more effectively. However, Lipitor is also more expensive than simvastatin.

In conclusion, Lipitor is a commonly prescribed medication for high cholesterol levels, and it is generally considered to be one of the most effective cholesterol-lowering medications available. However, there are other statins available, such as simvastatin, which can also be effective at lowering cholesterol levels. The choice of medication will depend on individual factors, such as the severity of the high cholesterol and the cost of the medication. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for high cholesterol.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/cholesterol-medications/art-20050958
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/high-cholesterol/atorvastatin-vs-simvastatin-which-is-better-for-high-cholesterol.