Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a type of medication called a statin that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. While Lipitor is a widely prescribed medication, there are alternative options available for those who cannot take it or prefer not to.
One alternative to Lipitor is another statin medication called Crestor (rosuvastatin). Like Lipitor, Crestor works by blocking an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol. However, Crestor may be more effective at lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels than Lipitor. Other statins that may be used as alternatives to Lipitor include Zocor (simvastatin), Pravachol (pravastatin), and Lescol (fluvastatin).
In addition to statins, there are other medications that can be used to lower cholesterol levels. One class of drugs is called bile acid sequestrants, which work by binding to bile acids in the intestine and preventing them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This causes the liver to use more cholesterol to produce new bile acids, which can lower cholesterol levels in the body. Examples of bile acid sequestrants include Questran (cholestyramine), Welchol (colesevelam), and Colestid (colestipol).
Another type of medication that can be used to lower cholesterol levels is called a PCSK9 inhibitor. These drugs work by blocking a protein called PCSK9, which helps to regulate LDL cholesterol levels in the body. By blocking PCSK9, these medications can help to lower LDL cholesterol levels. Examples of PCSK9 inhibitors include Repatha (evolocumab) and Praluent (alirocumab).
In addition to medication, there are also lifestyle changes that can be made to help lower cholesterol levels. These include eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/high-cholesterol/statins-alternatives-medications-for-lowering-high-cholesterol
[3] https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/cholesterol-lowering-alternatives