Lipitor, a medication commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, affects cholesterol readings in several ways.

Firstly, Lipitor is a statin, a class of drugs that work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol [1]. By inhibiting this substance, Lipitor reduces the production of cholesterol in the body, which in turn lowers the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, and triglycerides in the blood [1].

Secondly, Lipitor can also increase the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol [1]. This dual action of lowering LDL and increasing HDL cholesterol leads to improved cholesterol readings.

It is important to note that while Lipitor can significantly affect cholesterol readings, it is not a cure for high cholesterol. Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and weight management are crucial components of cholesterol management [1].

Lastly, it is worth mentioning that Lipitor has a patent expiration date of November 30, 2011 [2]. This means that after this date, generic versions of the drug became available on the market, which can affect the cost and accessibility of the medication [2].

In summary, Lipitor affects cholesterol readings by lowering LDL and triglyceride levels and increasing HDL levels. However, it is not a standalone solution for high cholesterol and should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes.

Sources:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/description/drg-20065005>
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2021). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Drug Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/lipitor-atorvastatin/>