Current Prices for Lipitor and Crestor
Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Crestor (rosuvastatin), both statins for cholesterol, have similar average retail prices without insurance. A 30-day supply of generic Lipitor 20mg costs $10-$40, while generic Crestor 20mg runs $20-$60 at major pharmacies like Walmart or CVS. Brand-name versions are pricier: Lipitor around $300-$400 monthly, Crestor $350-$450. Prices fluctuate by dosage, quantity, and location—check GoodRx for coupons, which often drop generics below $15.[1][2]
Why Crestor Costs More Than Lipitor
Crestor generics launched later (2016 vs. Lipitor's 2011), so supply chains matured slower, keeping prices 20-50% higher initially. Atorvastatin has more manufacturers (e.g., 15+ generics), driving competition and lower costs. Rosuvastatin has fewer (about 8), sustaining higher prices. Both are now commoditized, but Crestor edges up due to less competition.[1][3]
Generic vs. Brand Price Breakdown
| Version | Lipitor (20mg, 30 days) | Crestor (20mg, 30 days) |
|---------|--------------------------|--------------------------|
| Generic | $10-$40 (GoodRx avg. $12) | $20-$60 (GoodRx avg. $25) |
| Brand | $300-$400 | $350-$450 |
Prices from 2024 data; use tools like GoodRx or PharmacyChecker for real-time quotes. Insurance often covers generics at $0-$10 copay for both.[1][2]
With Insurance or Medicare: What Patients Pay
Most plans favor generics equally—copays under $10. Medicare Part D lists atorvastatin tiers 1-2 (lowest cost), rosuvastatin similar but occasionally tier 3. Out-of-pocket maxes apply the same. High-deductible plans mean full retail until met, favoring cheaper Lipitor.[4]
How to Get the Lowest Price
- GoodRx or SingleCare coupons: Slash generics to $3-$10.
- Walmart's $4 generic list includes both.
- Mail-order (Costco, Amazon Pharmacy): 10-20% savings.
- Pill splitting (10mg to 20mg): Halves cost legally for both.
Switching from brand? Doctors often recommend atorvastatin for savings without potency loss.[1][2]
Factors Driving Price Differences Long-Term
Patents expired (Lipitor 2011, Crestor 2016), but Lipitor's earlier entry flooded the market. Supply chain issues or demand spikes (e.g., post-COVID cholesterol checks) can widen gaps temporarily. No major shortages now.[3]
[1]: GoodRx - Atorvastatin Prices
[2]: GoodRx - Rosuvastatin Prices
[3]: Drugs.com - Generic Competition
[4]: Medicare.gov - Part D Formulary