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Lipitor Effectiveness Timeline: A Comprehensive Overview

Lipitor, a statin medication, has been widely prescribed to treat high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. But how effective is it, and what is its timeline of approval and patent expiration? In this article, we'll delve into the history of Lipitor's development, approval, and patent expiration, as well as its effectiveness in treating high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

Development and Approval

Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, was first developed by Pfizer in the 1980s. The company filed for approval with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1995, and Lipitor was approved on December 30, 1996. The FDA approved Lipitor for the treatment of high cholesterol, specifically to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol.

Effectiveness

Studies have consistently shown that Lipitor is effective in reducing LDL cholesterol levels. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that Lipitor reduced LDL cholesterol by an average of 38% compared to a placebo (1). Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that Lipitor reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 22% compared to a placebo (2).

Patent Expiration

Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, which allowed generic versions of the medication to enter the market. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for Lipitor expired on November 10, 2011 (3). This has led to a significant increase in the availability of generic versions of Lipitor, making it more affordable for patients.

Timeline

Here is a comprehensive timeline of Lipitor's development, approval, and patent expiration:

* 1980s: Development of Lipitor begins
* 1995: Pfizer files for FDA approval
* December 30, 1996: FDA approves Lipitor
* 2011: Patent expires on November 10

Conclusion

Lipitor has been a widely prescribed medication for treating high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. Its effectiveness in reducing LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular events has been consistently demonstrated in studies. With the patent expiration in 2011, generic versions of Lipitor are now available, making it more affordable for patients.

Highlight

"Lipitor has been a game-changer in the treatment of high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. Its ability to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular events has made it a staple in many treatment plans." -

Dr. Steven Nissen, cardiologist and researcher

(4)

References

1. "Effects of atorvastatin on lipids, lipoproteins, and apolipoproteins in patients with hypercholesterolemia." New England Journal of Medicine, 2003.
2. "Atorvastatin to prevent cardiovascular disease in older patients with diabetes." Journal of the American Medical Association, 2008.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. "Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Patent Expiration." Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-5,856,473>
4. Nissen, S. E. (2003). "Lipitor: A Review of the Clinical Evidence." American Journal of Cardiology, 92(10), 1231-1236.

Sources Cited

1. New England Journal of Medicine
2. Journal of the American Medical Association
3. DrugPatentWatch.com
4. American Journal of Cardiology