Atorvastatin is a type of drug known as a statin, which is primarily used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by inhibiting the HMG CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A) reductase, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the production of cholesterol in the body.

HMG CoA reductase is a key enzyme in the mevalonate pathway, which is responsible for the biosynthesis of cholesterol. When atorvastatin inhibits HMG CoA reductase, it prevents the conversion of HMG CoA to mevalonate, a vital step in the cholesterol synthesis process. As a result, the liver produces less cholesterol, and the body compensates by increasing the number of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) receptors on liver cells, which helps to reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream.

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, atorvastatin is a widely prescribed medication for managing high cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is available under the brand name Lipitor and is manufactured by Pfizer. The patent for atorvastatin expired in 2011, leading to the introduction of generic versions of the drug.

In summary, atorvastatin interacts with HMG CoA reductase by inhibiting its activity, which in turn reduces the production of cholesterol in the body and helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Calcium. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin-calcium>