Lipitor is a brand-name medication that contains atorvastatin, which is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Atorvastatin is also available as a generic medication, which is typically less expensive than the brand-name version. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, which means that other pharmaceutical companies can now produce generic versions of the medication. This has led to a decrease in the cost of atorvastatin.

The British Heart Foundation [2] suggests that there are several alternatives to atorvastatin that can also be used to lower cholesterol levels. These include statins such as simvastatin, pravastatin, and rosuvastatin, as well as non-statin medications such as ezetimibe and bile acid sequestrants. The cost of these medications may vary depending on factors such as the dosage, the brand, and the location where they are purchased.

GoodRx [3] provides a comparison of the prices of atorvastatin and its generic version at various pharmacies in the United States. The cost of a 30-day supply of atorvastatin ranges from $9 to $394, with an average retail price of $25. The cost of a 30-day supply of the generic version of atorvastatin ranges from $4 to $46, with an average retail price of $11. This suggests that the generic version of atorvastatin is significantly less expensive than the brand-name version.

In conclusion, the cost difference between Lipitor and its alternatives may vary depending on several factors such as the dosage, the brand, and the location where they are purchased. However, the availability of generic versions of atorvastatin has led to a decrease in the cost of the medication. According to GoodRx, the generic version of atorvastatin is significantly less expensive than the brand-name version.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/cholesterol-lowering-alternatives
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/atorvastatin/what-is