Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver [1].

However, the specific protein that Lipitor regulates is actually HMG-CoA reductase itself. By inhibiting this enzyme, Lipitor reduces the liver's ability to produce cholesterol, thereby lowering overall cholesterol levels in the blood.

It's worth noting that Lipitor has also been observed to have pleiotropic effects, which means it can affect multiple pathways and cellular processes beyond just cholesterol synthesis. These effects include improved endothelial function, reduced inflammation, and stabilized plaque formation in the arteries [2,3].

According to DrugPatentWatch.com [4], Lipitor is owned by Pfizer and was approved by the FDA in 1996. As of 2023, the patent for Lipitor expired, allowing generic versions of the medication to become available.

Sources:

[1] "Statins" by Medication.com. Retrieved from https://www.medication.com/statins/

[2] "Lipitor" by MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697043.html

[3] "Atorvastatin (Lipitor)" by Drugs.com. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/lor.html

[4] DrugPatentWatch.com https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/104/