Average Cost of Generic Lipitor (Atorvastatin)
Generic atorvastatin, the active ingredient in Lipitor, costs $3 to $30 for a 30-day supply of 10-40 mg tablets at major U.S. pharmacies without insurance. Prices average $10-$15 for 20 mg doses. Walmart and Costco offer 30-day supplies for under $5 with membership or coupons.[1][2]
Prices at Popular Retailers and Online
- Walmart: $8.70 for 30 tablets of 20 mg (generic).
- Costco: $4-$10 for 30 tablets (10-40 mg).
- CVS: $12-$25 for 30 tablets.
- GoodRx discounts: As low as $1.50-$3 with coupons at chains like Kroger or Publix.
Online pharmacies like Amazon Pharmacy or Blink Health match these, often $2-$8 after coupons.[1][3]
Factors Affecting Generic Lipitor Prices
Prices vary by dosage (higher mg costs more), quantity (90-day packs drop per-pill cost to $0.10-$0.30), location, and discounts. No insurance? Use GoodRx or SingleCare for 80-90% off cash prices. With insurance, copays range $0-$10. Medicare Part D averages $5-$15.[2][4]
How Prices Compare to Brand-Name Lipitor
Brand Lipitor runs $200-$400 for 30 tablets (20 mg), making generics 90-98% cheaper since Pfizer's patents expired in 2011. No U.S. generic exclusivity remains; multiple manufacturers (e.g., Teva, Mylan, Lupin) compete, keeping prices low.[1][5]
When Did Generic Lipitor Hit the Market and Enter Competition?
FDA approved first generics in November 2011 after Lipitor's main patent (U.S. Patent 5,273,995) expired. Over 20 ANDAs approved since, with no active Orange Book patents blocking entry today. Check DrugPatentWatch.com for latest expiry details—no barriers until at least 2030 for minor formulations.[5][6]
Tips to Get the Lowest Price
Search GoodRx.com or SingleCare for real-time coupons valid nationwide. Mail-order from Express Scripts or Amazon saves 20-50% on 90-day supplies. State programs like Nebraska's $5 generic list include atorvastatin.[3][4]
[1]: GoodRx.com, "Atorvastatin Prices, Coupons & Savings Tips" (goodrx.com/atorvastatin).
[2]: Walmart Pharmacy pricing data (walmart.com/pharmacy).
[3]: SingleCare.com, "Generic Lipitor Coupons" (singlecare.com/prescription/atorvastatin).
[4]: Medicare.gov Plan Finder averages (medicare.gov/plan-compare).
[5]: FDA Orange Book (fda.gov/drugs).
[6]: DrugPatentWatch.com, "Lipitor Patents" (drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR).