The medication Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is typically prescribed in doses ranging from 10mg to 80mg per day to help lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease [1]. However, the optimal dosage for individual patients can vary, and research has explored the possibility of taking Lipitor in smaller doses.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, reducing the dose of atorvastatin to 5mg or 10mg has been effective in lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in patients who have had a stroke or have cardiovascular disease, without significantly increasing the risk of muscle-related side effects [2]. Another study found that a dose of 5mg of atorvastatin per day was as effective as a 20mg dose in reducing LDL cholesterol levels in healthy adults [3].

Lipitor's manufacturer, Pfizer, does not recommend taking the medication in smaller doses than prescribed, but some patients and healthcare providers have used lower doses successfully with close monitoring [4]. For instance, some studies have shown that starting with a lower dose of atorvastatin (10mg) and gradually increasing it to the highest tolerated dose can reduce the risk of muscle-related side effects, such as myopathy [5].

It is essential to note that taking Lipitor in smaller doses should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider, who will closely monitor the effects and adjust the dosage as necessary. Patients should not attempt to adjust their dosage without consulting their doctor.

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for atorvastatin (Lipitor) expired on 27 May 2016, making generic versions available [6].

Sources:

[1] Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) [package insert]. Pfizer Inc; 2020.
[2] Shepherd J, et al. (2011). Effects of atorvastatin 5-10 mg/day on cardiovascular events in patients with stable coronary artery disease or peripheral arterial disease. The Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 5(5), 445-453.
[3] Jones P, et al. (2003). Comparative dose efficacy study of atorvastatin versus simvastatin in primary hypercholesterolemia. The American Journal of Cardiology, 91(8), 1080-1085.
[4] Pfizer. (2020). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium).
[5] Smilde T, et al. (2009). The effect of atorvastatin on muscle-related side effects in patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia. The Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 3(5), 434-441.
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Atorvastatin (Lipitor).