Is lipitor patient assistance program available to all?

Eligibility restrictions limit Lipitor assistance

The Lipitor patient assistance program run by Pfizer does not extend to everyone. Only qualified low-income or uninsured individuals who meet specific criteria can receive the drug at little or no cost.

Who qualifies for the program

Patients must earn below 400 percent of the federal poverty level. They must also hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency and lack prescription coverage through Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance. Recent immigrants may face additional restrictions.

What happens if you fall outside the eligibility rules

Individuals with employer-sponsored insurance, Medicare Part D coverage, or income above the threshold usually receive a co-pay card or discount card in its place. These cards can reduce out-of-pocket costs but do not provide the drug for free.

When does the patent expire

The original compound patent for atorvastatin calcium, the active ingredient in Lipitor, expired in 2011. Generic versions have been available since then.