Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, and it works by blocking an enzyme that produces cholesterol in the liver. While a low-fat diet can also help reduce cholesterol levels, it may not be a complete replacement for Lipitor in some cases.
According to the drug patent watch website [1], Lipitor's active ingredient is atorvastatin calcium, and it is currently under patent protection until 2020. This medication is a statin, which is a class of drugs that are commonly used to lower cholesterol levels.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine [2] found that a low-fat diet can help lower cholesterol levels, but it may not be enough to reach target levels in some patients. The study suggests that a combination of a low-fat diet and medication, such as Lipitor, may be necessary to achieve optimal cholesterol levels.
The label for Lipitor, provided by Pfizer [3], recommends that the medication be used in conjunction with a low-fat diet. It also states that the dosage of Lipitor should be individualized based on the patient's cholesterol levels and response to treatment.
In conclusion, while a low-fat diet can be helpful in reducing cholesterol levels, it may not be a complete replacement for Lipitor in all cases. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for managing high cholesterol levels.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1312230/
[3] https://labeling.pfizer.com/showlabeling.aspx?id=587§ion=PPI