When Lipitor, a popular cholesterol-lowering medication, loses its patent protection, its expiration date marks the end of its exclusive marketing rights [1].
After the expiration, the original manufacturer, Pfizer, can no longer control the market with its branded version. However, this does not necessarily mean the medication is no longer available or effective. Instead, other pharmaceutical companies can start producing cheaper, generic versions of Lipitor, often referred to as atorvastatin [**].
The expiration date for Lipitor's patent was set for June 2011 in the US, and this allowed other manufacturers to produce and market generic versions of the medication [2]. As a result, multiple generic versions of Lipitor have become widely available, making the medication significantly more affordable for patients [3].
Despite the patent expiration, the brand name Lipitor continues to be marketed by Pfizer, albeit at a lower price point than before [4]. However, the cheaper generic alternatives, which can be up to 90% less expensive than the brand-name version, are likely to be the choice for many patients and healthcare providers [5].
It's worth noting that the generic versions of Lipitor have been found to have the same efficacy and safety profile as the brand-name medication, according to the FDA [6]. This makes the transition from the brand-name medication to a generic option a seamless one for patients, ensuring they continue to receive the same level of treatment without the added expense.
Overall, the expiration of Lipitor's patent marks a significant change in the availability and pricing of the medication, making it more accessible to a broader range of patients.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] U.S. Patent No. 6,327,403.
[3] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1003/atorvastatin-oral/details
[4] https://www.pfizer.com/news/feature_stories/ Lipitor Generic
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4744716/
[6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drug-registrations/generics-frequently-asked-questions