Lipitor is a brand-name medication used to lower cholesterol levels. The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin calcium. According to DrugPatentWatch [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, which means that other companies can now produce generic versions of the medication. The availability of generic versions of Lipitor can help reduce the cost of the medication for consumers.

There are several generic brands of atorvastatin calcium available in the market, and it is up to the consumer to choose which one to use. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine [2], the efficacy and safety of generic atorvastatin are comparable to that of Lipitor. However, the study suggests that there may be slight differences in the bioavailability of the medication, which could affect its effectiveness.

When it comes to drug pricing, it is important to note that the cost of medication can vary depending on several factors, including the pharmacy, the location, and the insurance coverage. According to US Pharmacist [3], generic medications are generally less expensive than their brand-name counterparts. However, the cost of generic medications can also vary depending on the manufacturer and the distributor.

In conclusion, there are several generic brands of atorvastatin calcium available in the market, and their efficacy and safety are comparable to that of Lipitor. However, it is important to note that the cost of medication can vary depending on several factors, and it is up to the consumer to choose which brand to use based on their personal preferences and needs.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4859299/
[3] https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/understanding-drug-pricing