Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, which means that other pharmaceutical companies can now produce generic versions of atorvastatin. However, the potency and duration of the drug are determined by its chemical composition and the way it interacts with the body, and cannot be increased by generic manufacturers.

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association [2] found that the potency of atorvastatin can be affected by genetic variations in the CYP3A4 enzyme, which is responsible for metabolizing the drug. The study suggests that people with certain genetic variants may require lower doses of atorvastatin to achieve the same cholesterol-lowering effects as those without the variants. However, the study does not provide any evidence that the potency or duration of atorvastatin can be increased beyond its normal range.

Another article from Medsafe [3] explains that atorvastatin is metabolized by the liver, and its potency can be affected by other medications that interact with the same liver enzymes. For example, some medications used to treat fungal infections or HIV can increase the levels of atorvastatin in the body, which can increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking before starting atorvastatin to avoid potential interactions.

In summary, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease. The potency and duration of the drug are determined by its chemical composition and the way it interacts with the body, and cannot be increased by generic manufacturers. However, genetic variations and drug interactions can affect the potency of atorvastatin, and it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking before starting treatment.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4799528/
[3] https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/profs/PUArticles/March2014StatinsAndCYPInteractions.htm