Lipitor is a widely prescribed medication for treating high cholesterol. The drug is available in both brand-name and generic forms. According to DrugPatentWatch [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, which opened the door for other manufacturers to produce generic versions of the drug. This has led to a significant cost difference between the brand-name and generic versions of Lipitor.

The cost of Lipitor varies depending on the dosage, quantity, and location. According to GoodRx [3], the average retail price of Lipitor 20mg is around $300 for 30 tablets. However, the generic version of Lipitor, atorvastatin, is much cheaper. GoodRx [3] reports that the average retail price of atorvastatin 20mg is around $10 for 30 tablets. This is a significant cost difference of over 95%.

A study published in the Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy [2] compared the cost-effectiveness of brand-name Lipitor and generic atorvastatin. The study found that the generic version of Lipitor was cost-effective and provided similar health benefits as the brand-name drug. The study concluded that switching to generic atorvastatin could save patients and healthcare systems significant amounts of money.

In conclusion, the cost difference between brand-name Lipitor and generic atorvastatin is significant. Atorvastatin is much cheaper than Lipitor, and studies have shown that it is just as effective. Patients and healthcare systems can save significant amounts of money by switching to generic atorvastatin.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4859299/
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/classes/statins/intensity-comparison-chart