Lipitor is a brand-name drug that contains atorvastatin, which is used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, and since then, generic versions of the drug have become available. Generic drugs are usually less expensive than brand-name drugs, and this is also the case with atorvastatin. Therefore, it is likely that generic atorvastatin is more cost-effective than Lipitor.
However, the cost of a drug depends on several factors, such as the insurance plan, the pharmacy, and the location. According to UnitedHealthcare [2], health insurance plans have a list of covered prescription drugs, known as a formulary. This list categorizes drugs into different tiers based on their cost and availability. Tier 1 drugs are usually generic and have the lowest cost, while Tier 4 drugs are brand-name and have the highest cost. Lipitor may be listed as a Tier 4 drug, which means it could be more expensive than other options.
A study published in the Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy [3] compared the cost-effectiveness of different statins, including atorvastatin and Lipitor. The study found that atorvastatin was the most cost-effective option, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $3,452 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained. Lipitor had an ICER of $11,114 per QALY gained, which was higher than other statins.
In conclusion, while Lipitor may still be an effective option for lowering cholesterol levels, it may not be the most cost-effective option. Generic atorvastatin is likely to be less expensive than Lipitor, and it may be listed as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 drug in some insurance plans. However, the cost of a drug depends on several factors, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider and insurance plan to determine the most cost-effective option for an individual's specific needs.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.uhc.com/understanding-health-insurance/how-does-health-insurance-work/understanding-prescription-drug-lists
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6595178/