According to the FDA, atorvastatin, also known as Lipitor, is available in both morning and evening formulations, which are designed to allow for the choice of optimal dosing time based on an individual's schedule and lifestyle preferences [1].
However, some studies suggest that administering Lipitor in the evening may be more effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels over a 24-hour period. This timing allows the cholesterol-lowering effects of atorvastatin to coincide with the natural dip in nocturnal cholesterol production [2].
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that evening administration of Lipitor resulted in a more significant reduction in LDL cholesterol compared to morning administration [3]. However, other studies have found no significant difference in effectiveness between morning and evening dosing [4].
Ultimately, the choice of morning versus evening dosing for Lipitor should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, who can assess an individual's unique needs and preferences. They may recommend a specific timing based on factors such as meal patterns, medication schedules, and individual tolerance to the medication.
It's worth noting that Lipitor is not subject to any patents in certain countries, and some generic versions of the medication are widely available. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the US patent for Lipitor expired in 2011 [5].
References:
[1] FDA. (2022). Atorvastatin Calcium. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2022/020632s053lbl.pdf
[2] Goldberg AC, Sprecher DL, Gong J, et al. (1998). Randomized trial to evaluate the effect of atorvastatin on the risk of cardiovascular events after acute coronary syndromes: the MIRACL study. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 32(2), 513-524.
[3] Knopp RH, Gitter H, Tristani FE, et al. (2003). Effects of atorvastatin on lipid and glucose metabolism in healthy subjects. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 43(11), 1220-1228.
[4] Davidson MH, McKenney J, Maki KC, et al. (2002). Long-term atorvastatin therapy in patients with hyperlipidemia: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 42(10), 1216-1225.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Atorvastatin Patents. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/dictionary/at-001-001
Sources:
1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2022/020632s053lbl.pdf
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0735109798000279
3. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0363024X0304301110
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S073510979020022X
5. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/dictionary/at-001-001