Lipitor is a medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels. It works by inhibiting an enzyme that is responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver [1]. According to Drug Patent Watch, Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, and it is now available as a generic medication. The generic version of Lipitor is called atorvastatin, and it works in the same way as Lipitor [1].

While Lipitor can effectively lower cholesterol levels, it is not a permanent solution. According to UnityPoint Health, stopping statin medications like Lipitor can cause cholesterol levels to rise again. In fact, if a person stops taking Lipitor, their cholesterol levels can return to their previous levels within a few weeks or months [2].

However, it is important to note that cholesterol levels can be managed through lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, in addition to medication like Lipitor [3].

In conclusion, Lipitor can improve cholesterol levels, but it is not a permanent solution. If a person stops taking Lipitor, their cholesterol levels can rise again. Therefore, it is important to manage cholesterol levels through a combination of medication and lifestyle changes.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.unitypoint.org/news-and-articles/can-you-stop-taking-statins-once-you-start
[3] https://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/features/when-your-doctor-orders-cholesterol-lowering-medications