Lifestyle changes and Lipitor (atorvastatin) are both effective in reducing cholesterol levels. Lipitor is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which are used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol [1]. Lipitor is a popular brand of atorvastatin, which was first approved by the FDA in 1996 [1].

According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking can help reduce cholesterol levels [2]. The study found that lifestyle changes can reduce LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) by 5-10%, which is comparable to the cholesterol-lowering effect of statins [2].

However, in some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough to lower cholesterol levels to a healthy range. In such cases, medication such as Lipitor may be prescribed in addition to lifestyle changes. Lipitor has been shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease [3].

In conclusion, lifestyle changes and Lipitor are both effective in reducing cholesterol levels. While lifestyle changes alone can be effective in some cases, medication such as Lipitor may be necessary in others. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider the best course of treatment for your individual needs and circumstances.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25044013/
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/statins/