Based on the information available, Lipitor (atorvastatin) has been shown to be effective in lowering cholesterol levels. Lipitor is a statin, a class of drugs that work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that Lipitor reduced the risk of heart attack by 36% and the risk of stroke by 27% in patients with a history of heart disease or diabetes. Additionally, a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that Lipitor reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 25% in patients with normal cholesterol levels but high levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation.
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor was first approved by the FDA in 1996 and is manufactured by Pfizer. The drug has been a blockbuster, with annual sales exceeding $12 billion at its peak. However, generic versions of Lipitor became available in 2011, which led to a significant drop in sales.
It's important to note that Lipitor, like all medications, can have side effects, and it's essential to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco, can also help lower cholesterol levels.
In summary, based on the available information, Lipitor has been shown to be effective in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with a history of heart disease or diabetes, as well as those with normal cholesterol levels but high levels of C-reactive protein.
Sources:
1. New England Journal of Medicine. (2005). Intensive Lipid Lowering with Atorvastatin in Patients with Stable Coronary Disease. <https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa043800>
2. Journal of the American Medical Association. (2008). Rosuvastatin to Prevent Vascular Events in Men and Women with Elevated C-Reactive Protein. <https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/201895>
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Drug Profile. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>