See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Cost Comparison: Lipitor vs. Generic

Pfizer's Lipitor, a popular cholesterol-lowering medication, has been a household name for decades. However, with the patent expiration in 2011, generic alternatives have flooded the market, offering a more affordable option for patients. But how much of a difference can you expect in terms of cost?

Generic Options

Several generic versions of Lipitor (atorvastatin) are available, including:

* Teva Pharmaceuticals' atorvastatin calcium
* Mylan Pharmaceuticals' atorvastatin calcium
* Ranbaxy Laboratories' atorvastatin calcium
* Dr. Reddy's Laboratories' atorvastatin calcium

Cost Comparison

According to a study published in the Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy, the average wholesale price (AWP) of generic atorvastatin calcium is significantly lower than Lipitor's AWP. The study found that:

* Lipitor (20mg): AWP $143.50
* Generic atorvastatin calcium (20mg): AWP $24.50

As highlighted by

"The cost of generic atorvastatin calcium is approximately 83% lower than the cost of Lipitor."

(Source: Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy)

Retail Prices

To give you a better idea of the cost difference, here are some retail prices for Lipitor and generic atorvastatin calcium:

* Lipitor (20mg): $150-$200 per month
* Generic atorvastatin calcium (20mg): $20-$50 per month

Conclusion

The cost difference between Lipitor and generic atorvastatin calcium is substantial. With generic options available, patients can expect to save up to 83% compared to the original brand-name medication. As the patent expiration has led to increased competition in the market, patients can now access affordable treatment options for high cholesterol.

Sources:

1. Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy. (2012). Generic atorvastatin calcium: A cost-effective alternative to Lipitor. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/atorvastatin-calcium-patent-expiration-date/>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Calcium Patent Expiration Date. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/atorvastatin-calcium-patent-expiration-date/>
3. GoodRx. (n.d.). Lipitor Prices and Coupons. Retrieved from <https://www.goodrx.com/lipitor>
4. GoodRx. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Calcium Prices and Coupons. Retrieved from <https://www.goodrx.com/atorvastatin-calcium>