How does generic lipitor compare in price to brand name?

How much does generic Lipitor usually cost compared with the brand?

Generic atorvastatin sells for roughly $10–30 for a 30-day supply at common retail pharmacies, while the branded Lipitor version still lists at $400–500 for the same quantity.

Why is the generic so much cheaper than the brand?

Once Pfizer’s patent on atorvastatin expired in 2011, multiple manufacturers gained FDA approval to produce the drug, which increased competition and drove prices down sharply.

Can patients get the brand-name drug for less?

Some insurers and pharmacy benefit managers still list Lipitor as a preferred brand and may cover it at a lower copay than the generic for certain plans, but cash-pay patients almost always pay far more for the brand.

When will Lipitor’s remaining patents or exclusivities end?

Lipitor’s core compound patent and related exclusivities expired years ago, and current price gaps stem mainly from marketing and formulation differences rather than active patent protection.

How do prices vary across pharmacies and online sources?

Large chains such as CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart often run generic atorvastatin promotions under $15 for 30 tablets; mail-order and discount programs like GoodRx or SingleCare can bring the cost below $10, while brand Lipitor rarely falls below several hundred dollars without special assistance programs.